The sunshine held out this weekend as a festival kicked off with its film-themed carnival parade.

Hundreds of residents lined the streets of Borehamwood as the 58th annual Borehamwood and Elstree Civic Festival began with a large parade around the town.

Around 20 floats made up the carnival parade, which was headed by a Brazilian-themed samba band in a nod to the World Cup.

Click here to see our photo gallery from the event

As Borehamwood and Elstree are also celebrating the centenary of filmmaking this year,  floats made reference to some of the hit films made at Elstree Studios - including a huge number of storm troopers and Jedis.

Hertsmere Mencap also had a float to celebrate 50 years of progress, while the Brownies waved ‘100’ signs to commemorate 100 years of Brownies.

A number of schools also took part, including floats and walking groups from Parkside, Woodlands, Saffron Green and Kenilworth schools.

Other organisations that joined in the fun included resident’s association EBRA, the Royal British Legion, Borehamwood FC Youth, a Ju Jitsu club and the Bhaktivedanta Manor.

One group watching the parade said: “It’s a great family day out. We all come down every year with the children and meet up to watch the parade. The children absolutely love it - they’ll dance along with the music and seem desperate to get in on all the action.”

The parade marks the beginning of the two week annual civic festival, which includes a huge range of family-friendly activities.

Lynn Childs, from London, added: “Coming to the festival and parade is something my family has always done, so I like to take my grandchildren to see it now.

“You don’t get this kind of thing where we live- I like seeing everyone get involved and make something this good.”