They were packed on to the bank of the Thames like sardines - appropriately enough.

Surrey Comet:

Fans of small, commonly-tinned fish lined the Thames

Surbiton's sunny sardine festival drew a record crowd this year for the first main event in the Surbiton Food Festival programme.

The traditional parade from Claremont Gardens to the river was followed by a barbecue and music in the park.

Robin Hutchinson, of organisers the Community Brain, said: "The reaction was fabulous with so many people saying what a special day it was and how great Surbiton is."

Surrey Comet:

The guinea pigs of Seething led the parade to the riverbank

He added: "This was without any doubt the best Sardine Festival ever with people coming from all over London to take part. We are all looking forward to the village fete this weekend."

  • The village fete will be held on Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10 from 12pm to 6pm in St Andrew's Square.