FINAL preparations have been completed before the bumper bank holiday weekend in Leiston.Two days of festivities are planned as the CYDS Big Bash takes over the Victory Road recreation ground today and the Gala rolls into town tomorrow .

FINAL preparations have been completed before the bumper bank holiday weekend in Leiston.

Two days of festivities are planned as the CYDS Big Bash takes over the Victory Road recreation ground today and the Gala rolls into town tomorrow .

The Big Bash, organised by youth charity CYDS, was returning for its second year promising to be bigger and better than before.

The event, aimed particularly at young people, features a number of live bands and musicians and an open microphone stage where local youngsters are encouraged to come and have a go.

There will also be a variety of information stalls representing many an array of organisations that offer advice and help to young people.

Other attractions will include a circus skills workshop and a performance from award winning theatre company Red Rose Chain, who will act with CYDS members to perform their current work.

The day culminates in a battle of the DJ's.

A licensed bar will be available during the evening with a strict proof of age policy being enforced.

The fun goes on until 11pm.

Tomorrow will see the annual Leiston Gala commence at 8am with a fishing match at Haylings Pond.

The procession will leave Leiston primary school and proceed along Sizewell Road, High Street, Main Street and Park Hill before arriving at the recreation ground in Victory Road where town councillor Frank Huxley will offcially open the gala.

Gala queen Natalie Pilcher, 18, will be accompanied by three attendants, Sophie Pearce, 11, Leanne Brewer, 9, and Sherilyn Ward, 9.

The recreation ground will be the setting for a number of events including a tug of war competition, and displays from the Lowestoft Dog Display Team and Green Trees riding centre.

There will also be live music in the Crown car park throughout the day,