CRAZY hats will be the order of the day in Barton Stacey on Sunday when fun runners take to the streets to raise funds for the village's Cygnets Playgroup.

Organiser Kathie Knell, whose son Rupert attends the playgroup, is hoping to raise between £500 and £600 to further equip the village hall for youngsters and replace old toys, some of which have been in use since the playgroup started more than 14 years ago. If enough is raised, youngsters may even benefit from plug-in toy computers.

Kathie, an Army training officer, decided to boost raise for the group after taking some time off work to help out.

The day will start with a 10km stagger from the village centre at 10.30am. The 'kids canter' starts at 11am, followed by the 3km waddle at 11.30am.

There will be a number of games and fun races for children and prizes for the top runners and best crazy hats.

Kathie's idea follows hot on the heels of her colleague Major Jay Turner whose fundraising efforts saw him attempt to run 100 times around the grounds of the DLO in Middle Wallop.

She said: "It's all about doing as much as we can to help out in the area. It's a lovely playgroup and very well-supported by the village.

"It would be a shame if they couldn't have new toys and equipment. I'm sure Sunday will be a lot of fun."

Entries - £4 individually or £10 for families - are available from 24 West Road, Barton Stacey or by calling 01962 760940. Fun runners can also register on the day. A free creche will be available in the village hall.