THE John Thornton Obstacle Pram race made a welcome return to Ferndown's Fete on the Field at the weekend, with a dozen teams battling for bragging rights.

Bumper crowds attended the fete, which was organised in support a number of good causes by the Ferndown Rotary Club.

It included a host of attractions including live entertainment from the bandstand, a classic car show, an avenue of fete stalls, live displays from two arenas and a fun dog show.

But the pram race certainly proved one of the main attractions.

The John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF) was established in memory of John Thornton, who was killed fighting in Afghanistan in 2008.

John's dad Pete told the Echo: "Ferndown Rotary run the event and this year they said that if we wanted to run the pram race all the proceeds would go to the foundation."

Each team included one 'baby' and up to four pushers, and took in a 1.5km course with a number of activities.

Pete explained: "In one of the activities the baby had to get out of the pram, pick up a little shot glass, run to a bucket of 'milk' and come back and fill a baby's bottle.

"It took about six runs to do it.

"We also had a camouflage net across the ground, and the 'baby' had to crawl under and retrieve a numbered dummy, come back, put a nappy on and get back in the pram.

"The rotary have been absolutely brilliant, everyone in Dorset has supported the charity."

The JTYAF's mantra is to 'provide opportunities for young people to help them to develop as individuals and fulfil their ambitions in life as John was able to do so'.

Visitor Martin Pellingham said: "Its been a lovely day, the sun has been out and everyone has been having a great time.

"There's been some nice food and drink as well, what more can you say."

Meanwhile, an event spokesman explained that as well as the second running of the pram race, the event also boasted the Ferndown 10k & 5k runs, which took place around the heathland.

"For the children’s entertainment there were magic shows, some great bouncy castles and a fancy dress competition," added the spokesman. "There was even a best ‘fancy’ dressed stall.

"Visitors also enjoyed a generous selection of food stalls, with both hot and cold refreshments throughout the day, including a fine selection of local beers & ciders."

The event started at 11am and continued throughout Saturday afternoon.