A 20ft-tall fire-breathing lion roamed the streets of Borehamwood on Saturday in the 49th annual Town Festival Parade.

Colourful costumes and decorated floats brightened up the town as thousands of people turned out to watch the event which was organised by Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council.

Starting from Brook Road, the parade travelled along Shenley Road, Theobald Street, Aycliffe Road and Leeming Road where they were greeted by cheers of support from onlookers.

Music performed by the Derby Midshipmen Marching Band filled the air as they led the parade through the town.

This year, the parade included entries from Woodlands, Saffron Green and St Nicholas schools, whose pupils dressed in World War Two army costumes.

Members of the Hare Krishna temple in Aldenham won overall best float for their fire-breathing lion, while Borehamwood's K School of Dancing won the youth prize for what was described as a spectacular display of dance and movement.

Parasuram Das, who organised the winning Hare Krishna entry said: "We are absolutely delighted. It was a great day and the weeks of hard work clearly paid off. We can't wait until next year."

One of the three judges, Derek Norman, manager of Borehamwood's Community Shops, said: "It was amazing to see how hard everybody worked. The entry from the Hare Krishnas was like nothing I've ever seen before — it was incredible."

Also taking part were members from the Royal British Legion, Elstree and Borehamwood Youth Council and the local Red Cross branch.

Paul Welsh, the event's organiser said: "It was a great day. Extremely hot and slightly unbearable at times, especially for those who were wearing costumes, but it was brilliant fun, as always, and good to see all the supporters come out to greet us.

"Hopefully next year's 50th annual parade will be bigger and better than ever."