The free community festival in Promenade Park will run from 11am to around 9pm today (July 8) and will include a variety of activities, the highlight being the arrival of the Queen's Baton around 12.30pm.

When the Baton arrives in Maldon, it will be carried by 10 specially chosen 'Batonbearers' on a two-kilometre course around the park, paying a visit to the statue of Byrhtnoth, before concluding on the UFest stage.

Speaking ahead of the "festival of community and wellbeing", Councillor Penny Channer, Leader of Maldon District Council, said: "We are delighted that Maldon District was chosen to welcome the Queen's Baton Relay during its incredible journey around the Commonwealth.

"We are looking forward to welcoming the local community to Promenade Park, to cheer the Queen's Baton along its way."

The Baton will be greeted by Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst; Chairman of Maldon District Council, Councillor Bob Boyce MBE; and Maldon Mayor, Councillor Andrew Lay.

Activities throughout the day include:

• 11.45am-12.15pm - Yoga
• 2-2.30pm - Kickboxing
• 2.45pm-3.15pm - Chinese Exercise
• 4.15pm-4.45pm - Mini games from Maldon Hockey
• 5.30pm-6.30pm – DixieLand, a four-piece jazz band
• 7pm-8.30pm – Covers band Exposé will sing hits from Abba, Queen, Gary Numan and more

The free festival has been funded by the National Lottery, Magnox and Livewell.

As it is a family event, alcohol will not be on sale in the park. However, there will be street food from around the world and visitors are encouraged to bring picnics.