Families flocked to an annual emergency services open day at Hertsmere’s new police station.

The new station, at Hertsmere Borough Council Civic Centre in Elstree Way, welcomed people from across Borehamwood as part of this year’s town festival.

Children were able to see the workings of a police car and meet officers, as well holding live snakes and animals at the RSPCA stall.

Chief Inspector for Hertsmere Dean Patient said: “It has been a great day and a great opportunity to engage with the community.

“It’s a chance for people to come and see the police when they are not necessarily on police activities and can meet officers and see some of the other work we do.

“This isn’t something my officers are told to do, they have organised this themselves and many are here out of their own time.”

Speaking about having a headquarters in the civic offices, he said: “I’m really pleased with our new home. Today is also helpful to introduce people to our new base and show them we haven’t gone anywhere.

“Even though it is a move a few hundred yards down the road, it means we are closer to the heart of the town and community.

Enjoying the day with her children was Nikki Guest, 28, of Eldon Avenue. She said: “It’s been a lovely day for everyone really.

“I don’t know of anywhere else that has this sort of event so it makes Borehamwood special. It’s been fun for the kids but also it is really educational for them.”

Scott Simmons of Elstree, who was at the event with his family, said: “We were just passing by and thought we would come and see what was happening, and the children have really enjoyed it.”

Police officers in Hertsmere are due to move into their new station, and out of the 1950s building in Elstree Way, in the next week.