IT IS one of the biggest annual events in Mole Valley, attracting thousands of people every year from across the district and further afield.
But organisers of Ashtead Village Day have vowed to make this year's event the biggest and best ever to celebrate its 30th anniversary.
The pledge was made as the first meeting to discuss the programme for the June 8 event, organised by Ashtead Rotary Club, was held this week.
The Advertiser also this week pledged its support to help make this year's Ashtead Village Day memorable. Organiser Tim Ashton said he was looking forward to the challenge of bringing everything together in time and seeing as many as 10,000 people flock to the event.
"I've got a whole book of things to do now but it's very exciting," he said.
The hunt for a celebrity to officially open the day has already started, after BBC presenter Evan Davis took the honour last year.
The Dragons' Den presenter is originally from Ashtead, and Mr Ashton said he hoped to find someone else with a connection to the area for this year. He added the grand opening was usually his favourite part of the day.
"We try and keep everything local," he said. "Evan Davis was lovely. I e-mailed him to ask and he said he would be delighted to come back and do the opening."
This year the celebrity will kick the day off by touring the stands in the area in a 1938 Bentley.
"We always try and come up with something different," said Mr Ashton. "Last year it was a horse and cart and the year before it was a fire engine. It's great because it gives visitors a chance to get a good view of the special guest."
Another big attraction for 2013 will be a daring show from The Stannage Stunt Team, which will perform feats, including setting themselves on fire and jumping from a 50ft metal tower.
"We're very excited about their two performances. They're going to be quite spectacular and dramatic," said Mr Ashton.
A new addition outside the arena will be a cookery demonstration tent, where an Ashtead chef will shows off his skills. The popular fun fayre, dog show and 120 stalls will also make a return.
"A lot of charities who have stalls tell us it's their best day of the year," said Mr Ashton. "I think it's because people just turn up in a good mood and want to have a great time."
Programmes which allow admission on the day go on sale a month before the event, costing £2 in advance or £4 on the day. Children under 13 will go free.
"It's important to us to keep the day affordable for families," said Mr Ashton. "At this rate, a family of four can have a wonderful day out for just £4."
