Entertaining your children throughout the summer holidays, no matter what their ages, can be a bit of a chore.

So when you find something that not only keeps them happy - but has something for you too - it's a real bonus.

And if it's free for the children ... then all the better!

Wolverhampton Racecourse is hosting a family fun day, featuring guest star SpongeBob SquarePants, on Monday, August 16.

The day – which is totally free for youngsters - is designed to offer something for everyone,  with heaps of things for children to enjoy, plus plenty to keep their parents happy too.

Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants will welcome families as they arrive, and will be making appearances at various intervals throughout the afternoon, as youngsters make the most of the host of attractions.

Staff from Dudley Zoo will be there, along with their Creature Features display, which includes the chance to meet and learn about a range of different animals, from bearded dragons, to tarantulas, geckos and stick insects.

They will also be bringing the zoo’s mascots, Gracie Giraffe and Jambi the Tiger, and treating visitors to some animal face-painting.

The Red Devils Freefall Team are planning to drop in to show off their spectacular parachuting skills around 1pm, before a full afternoon of racing gets under way on the all-weather track at 2.15pm.

As well as all this, there will also be a mega slide, penalty shoot-out, a bungee run, and a soft play area available to use throughout the afternoon – and everything is free of charge for under-18s, including admission as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Compton Hospice will be hosting a stall at the event, running a raffle and offering a selection of cuddly toys for sale, as well as collecting for their Capital Appeal, which is aiming to raise £1 million towards the cost of refurbishing the hospice’s in-patient and day care units.

The racecourse’s family-friendly restaurants will be serving meals throughout  the day, which can be booked in advance, and are included as part of some ticket packages.Gates open at noon, with the first race due to get under way at 2.15pm. To find out more, or book adult tickets, and meals in advance, visit http://www.thebestof.co.uk/local/wolverhampton/business-guide/feature/wolverhampton-racecourse/7531