Families in Thorpe Hamlet did not let the rain deter them from enjoying their Big Jubilee Lunch.

Wellesley Avenue South and Cintra Road were closed to traffic, to the delight of youngsters who took part in scooter races, tug of war contests and egg and spoon events.

Bunting was strewn across the road, with gazebos put up to protect lunching families from the elements.

Organiser Tracey Marsh said: 'We had the road closed for a Big Lunch in 2009 which everyone really enjoyed, so we thought we would do it again to mark the jubilee and the Olympics.

'A lot of the houses have changed hands in the last few years, so it's been a really good chance for us to get to know our neighbours.

'Everyone has pitched in. We were going to have our lunch on some tables in the middle of the street, but with the rain coming down, we sheltered under some gazebos.

'But we have not let the rain spoil the day and the kids have absolutely loved the chance to go up and down the street without any cars coming down it.'

And there was a very special banners on display, courtesy of Philip and Barbara Marriage, of Wellesley Road South.

Mr Marriage made a banner back in 1977 to mark the Queen's Silver Jubilee and proudly displayed it on his garage 35 years later.

He recalled: 'It took me a whole weekend to make it, using felt tips and I'm amazed it's survived through to today. We thought it would be nice to put it on display today.' His wife said: 'It was a lovely day back in 1977 with glorious sunshine, so it's a shame it's not been like that today. But we've got that British spirit, so we've had a good time regardless.'