A FREE festival with a green theme is coming to Basingstoke this weekend.

The Green Roadshow will take place in War Memorial Park on Saturday and Sunday, with activities for all the family.

Central to the festival will be an environmentally-friendly circus big top, which will be powered by solar and wind power.

Interactive performances will be provided by the Broccoli and Sprout environmental clown show, along with another clown called Kevin.

There will also be a chance to pick up information and make a green pledge by placing a leaf on a pledge tree.

The event is being organised by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council in a bid to raise awareness of climate change and to educate borough residents on the action they can take to reduce their carbon emissions.

As well as activities in the park, Meridian Entertainment will be giving performances of their green production, Dr How, in Festival Place, Basingstoke.

Councillor Anne Court, Cabinet member for the environment and climate change, said: "This free event is a must for all the family. People of all ages will be able to enjoy a wealth of entertainment, while also picking up useful information on how to think and act a little greener."

Cllr Court was in Festival Place to promote green options and recycling during last weekend.

She said: "As part of the borough council's climate change strategy, we want to raise awareness of what people can do to reduce their carbon footprint, and a fun, interactive event such as the roadshow is a fantastic way to engage with them.

"I hope people take the opportunity to come along to The Green Roadshow."

The Green Roadshow will take place from 11am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday. People wishing to park for free can leave their cars at Basingstoke Leisure Park and catch a shuttle bus to and from the event.

For more information about the event, call 01256 844844.