A TASTE of things to come was the message from performers in Winchester, as the build-up to one of the UK's biggest street festivals gets under way.

The Winchester Hat Fair is now in its 29th year. It attracts thousands of visitors to the city with the promise of outrageous street shows and colourful characters - and it's all free.

This year the Hat Fair is due to run from Wednesday, July 2 until Sunday, July 7 with almost 50 acts booked.

Yesterday those lucky enough to be in Winchester Cathedral Grounds at lunchtime were treated to a preview of just one of the spectacular shows due to hit the streets.

London-based acrobatic theatre group Mimbre gave an al fresco demonstration of their balance-based piece 'Tryp-tic', which on the day will be performed four metres off the ground on three separate towers. Former mayor and current Winchester City Council portfolio holder for community services, Cllr Therese Evans, joined in with the action performing a delicate balancing trick on top of the other performers.

The Hat Fair has its origins in 1974. It was a three-day festival of Street Theatre. Now developed into one of the most popular festivals on the south coast.

Acts booked include Polish balance performers Teatr Bruro Prodizny and fire breathers Ignite along with circus-based street shows, dance, drama, comedia and fooling around.

There is also a smaller programme of visual art/installation pieces, a craft market and tons of music.

The first day of the event is designated "schools day" with more than 750 children expected to attend and a series of workshops. For more information on what events are happening, contact 01962 849841 or visit www.hatfair.co.uk.