THE BAND played and the sun shone as the Hiltingbury schools' summer fete basked in a heatwave.

More than 1,000 people flocked to the grounds in Hiltingbury Road, Chandler's Ford, for the popular event organised by the infant and junior schools.

It was opened by former Eastleigh mayor Councillor Gillian Connell.

There were some reptile celebrities in the slithering shape of snakes and lizards and there was also the fun of the fair with fairground rides, candyfloss, skittles and coconut shies.

The talented young musicians from Thornden Band provided the musical entertainment and there was a chance for Hiltingbury youngsters to dress up in a fancy dress parade.

Other main arena displays included a demonstration from the Dynamo School of Gymanastics and junior dance groups.

The event, organised by the Hiltingbury Home School Association, also reached

for the skies with a balloon race.

With the scorching weather attracting a bumper crowd, the organisers were hoping to beat last year's fund-

raising total of £5,000.

The cash will help improve the playground and upgrade musical equipment for the infants school.