There’s a whole wide world of Wonderland on offer in Letchworth this weekend for anyone who has an urge to follow Lewis Carroll’s timeless characters down the rabbit hole.

There will be a chance to create headgear outrageous enough to make the Mad Hatter green with envy, a challenge to spot the Cheshire Cat’s grin and an opportunity to test your skills at croquet.

And you’ll even be able to meet the white rabbit, as long as he’s not late, during the afternoon of fun in Howard Park and Gardens on Sunday between 1pm and 4pm.

The event has been organised by community charity Groundwork Hertfordshire and the Friends of Howard Park & Gardens, in partnership with North Hertfordshire District Council and other local community groups, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the publication of the Alice in Wonderland story.

As the event approaches, manic milliners of any age are being challenged to let their imaginations run riot and come up with Mad Hats to enter into the grand competition which will be judged by the Red Queen herself on the day.

To catch the queen’s eye and be in with a chance to win one of the exclusive wacky prizes, hats should be a weird and wonderful as you can make them.

The event and all activities are free, although donations to support the work of the new Friends of Howard Park and Gardens group are welcome.

Councillor Jane Gray, the district council’s executive member for leisure, said: “The event looks like it will be great fun with lots of activities for all age groups.

“The Wonderland theme is a chance for the whole family to get creative and enjoy an afternoon of adventure in a lovely park setting.”

There’s also a new Howard Park & Gardens junior rangers group which is going from strength to strength.

Leader Hilary Kemp says sessions encourage children to explore the natural world, develop new skills and learn about plants and animals, using the park as a ‘living laboratory’.

To book a place contact Hilary Kemp on 07903 653673 or email juniorrangershpg@gmail.com.