Barnet parish church was transformed for its annual summer party -- and the Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Tony Vourou, joined in the fun when teddy bears were hauled on a zip wire to the top of the tower.

He hoped his visit would help to strengthen and enhance the role of the parish church as an asset to the local community, a place which was open to one and all.

“The church of St John the Baptist has been here since 1420.

“We are all its custodians and we must do all we can to keep the church open for everyone in the community,” said Councillor Vourou.

Lining up with the Mayor before Nicholas – named after his childhood teddy bear – was hauled up the zip wire were (from left to right), Councillor David Longstaff, Father Sam Rossiter-Peters, Mayoress Mrs Caroline Vourou and Councillor Vourou.

Given Boris Johnson’s experience ahead of the Olympic Games of getting stuck on a zip wire during his term as Mayor of London, Councillor Vourou was delighted that teddy bears were being used rather than mayors.

A heavy Saturday rainfall curtailed the enjoyment of outside activities – such as the bouncy castle – at what the organisers had hoped would be a well-attended party on the parish church green.

Despite the weather, the church was packed inside, and Father Sam was delighted that the Mayor and Mayoress had joined the celebration.

“Our annual party on the green is a free community event.

“It is a celebration. Our way of reminding the town that the parish church is a real community asset where everyone is welcome.”

Father Sam said tradition of an annual party on the green began with the Queen's Jubilee and then the King's Coronation and it was now an important occasion in St John's calendar of social events.

One stall which had no shortage of takers was serving refreshments – including a supply of grilled burgers and sausages prepared under the watchful eye of Bob Burstow.