Five parks have entertained families with live music, craft activities and water powered rockets during an annual event.

More than 5,000 people attended Larks in the Parks on Sunday, June 26 to enjoy a range of family-focussed activities based around this year’s theme - Little Bit of Midsummer Magic.

Parks across the district hosted performances, football sessions and the annual River Lea duck race as part of the St Albans 1life initiative.

Parish councils and voluntary groups worked with St Albans district council to organise the day.

Portfolio holder for community engagement Cllr Beric Read said: “Larks in the Parks bring local communities together at various locations around the district.

“It provided another free afternoon of fun and entertainment for all the family.”

Batford Community Action Group coordinated a Larks in the Parks event at Batford green space in Marquis Lane in Harpenden.

There was a stilt walker dressed as an insect and a fun fair to match the theme, along with stalls which were provided by community groups.

Local artists also held a pop-up studio with art activities for adults and children.

The Batford group’s organiser, Trish Schneider, said: “There’s always a lot to organise, but I can say Larks in the Parks has again proved to be a wonderful family event, clearly enjoyed by so many people from across Harpenden.”¶