A GWENT shopping centre is to play host to the UK's first “loom band” mini festival this weekend.

‘Loombran’ will celebrate the latest craze amongst children and teenagers for small coloured rubber bands and takes place on Saturday July 5. The family-friendly event at Cwmbran Shopping will see 60,000 free loom bands given away, with staff on hand to pass on tips and tricks, as well as other activities such as face painting.

Loom bands are the latest children’s craze sweeping the country, with many shops selling out of the bands due to high demand. Children use looms or their own fingers to twist the small coloured rubber bands into bracelets, necklaces and charms.

Cwmbran Shopping Centre manager, Paul Rich, said: “Loom bands are a brilliant children’s toy and we are proud to host the country’s first loom band mini festival. Although they are inexpensive and relatively simple, they encourage creativity, teamwork and build on children’s problem-solving skills.

“In the age of social media and tablets, we think it’s great to see such an old-fashioned craze that everyone can enjoy. We think loom bands are up there with marbles, yo-yos and hula-hoops as a toy that really captures the imagination of children."

‘Loombran’ takes place from 10am until 4pm in Gwent Square, Cwmbran Shopping.