Falconry displays, sheep shearing and ferret racing were just some of the attractions on offer at this year’s Harpenden Common Discovery Day.

Thousands of people flocked to the town on Saturday to soak up the sun and learn more about the Common and its environment.

Over the decades Harpenden Common has had varied uses including grazing for sheep, horseracing, hunting, ice skating, athletics, football, cricket, golf, circuses and fairs.

Alexandra Baron, event officer at Harpenden Town Council, said: "It went really, really well.

"We had a little bit of rain in the morning, which disturbed us a little but other than that it was a very good day.

"The arena display was very popular."

Attractions included the Ridgeside Lurchers, Falconry Display, sheep shearing, circus skills workshops, ferret racing as well as a variety of information stalls for community and environmental groups ranging from bees to bats and bowl carving to goats and spinning.

New this year was the Monkey Do, where children were able to swing from the branches of trees.

People could also show off their pets during the dog competition in a number of categories including prettiest bitch and waggiest tail.