There will be animals at Vittoriosa on 28 October between 8am and noon, and the idea is to get children acquainted with them.

The occasion will be World Food Day. Francis Agius, parliamentary secretary for agriculture and fisheries, said people often took food for granted but they should appreciate those who made it possible for them to have it – farmers, herdsmen and fishermen.

The theme for World Food Day this year is “The right for food”. Dr Agius said there were 854 million people throughout the world who did not have enough to eat.

Vittoriosa was chosen as the site for the day’s programme because it was built up and they would like children and their families to come into contact with nature.

The programme starts at 8.30am with the opening of an exhibition of fruit, vegetables and fish in the town’s square. At the same time the Bishop of Gozo, Mgr Mario Grech will celebrate Pontifical Mass at Vittoriosa collegiate church.

At 9am there will be an animals exhibition and the Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, the Minister of Rural Affairs George Pullicino, and Dr Agius will visit the agricultural exhibition.

Other activities will include a horse parade at 10.30am and animals being blessed at 11am.