THE BIGGEST street party in Bicester could be off the menu if organisers don't enlist more volunteers.

A rallying cry has gone out from the team behind the Bicester Big Lunch over fears the annual event could fall through.

Organisers say it is vital the event, which usually attracts thousands to the town each year, is supported by locals to help host the day and 'continue it's success'.

Jason Slaymaker, director of organising group OneBicester, said: "Bicester’s Big Lunch, our town’s annual get together, needs help to ensure its success continues.

"We are looking for new volunteers to lead, plan and manage the event for 2019. Without more volunteers Bicester’s Big Lunch simply will not happen."

The Big Lunch, which attracted some 5,000 people last year, is the town's biggest street party where picnic tables line Sheep Street and a host of entertainment is put on for families.

It usually takes place on the first Sunday in June and was started in 2012 to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

A team of volunteers in the community has since continued to carry the mantle and provide one of Bicester's biggest community events for the town centre annually.

The event also aims to help tackle loneliness in the town and encourage everyone to pull up a pew at the table and talk to their neighbours.

But now, due to changes in the organising team such as people moving away, there is an urgent need for more help.

Mr Slaymaker added: "We are looking for people who enjoy getting involved with projects that benefit their community but not necessarily with a background in events – enthusiasm is most important."

Roles required for the event include event management, volunteer management, logistics coordination, stall management, health and safety, entertainment management, schools liaison, decoration coordination, fundraising, budget management, graphic design and marketing.

Organisers will be required to go to a two-hour meeting once a month and help complete assigned tasks between meetings totalling an average of 10 hours volunteer work a month.

In order to fund the Big Lunch, smaller fundraisers are held by OneBicester throughout the year including Christmas markets on Saturday, December 1, and December 15.

Mr Slaymaker added: "The Big Lunch is an opportunity to bring our community together, from the planning stages to the delivery of the event. All while having fun and making friends along the way. Those involved can get invaluable experience in community work, fundraising and event planning.

"Community events have a big impact. Behind the cupcakes, the bunting, and the entertainment, is a movement that’s building social capital on a mass scale."

There will be a meeting for volunteers to sign up or find out more on December 5 from 7pm at the Kings Arms Hotel in Bicester. Visitors are asked to register their attendance on Facebook or email.

If you can't make the meeting but want to volunteer contact onebicester.org.uk or email onebicester@gmail.com