The seaside has arrived in Watford with the opening of a beach in the town centre.

The town might be more than 50 miles from the nearest beach, but for two weeks a 20m by 15m beach with 100 tonnes of real sand is in The Parade.

The beach opened last Saturday and runs until 9pm on Sunday with deckchairs, buckets and spades.

It has been organised by Watford Borough Council as part of the Big Event series to promote its extensive refurbishment of The Parade.

Opening in the sunshine last weekend, activities took place throughout the day, with face painting, a magician, and a visit from Peppa Pig and her little brother George.

Children and adults alike also joined in Feel Hot Yoga’s free session, as well as Everyone Active’s summer workout.

To round off the day, Oceana’s resident DJ played chilled out Ibiza tunes while its pop-up bar served jam jar cocktails.

Elected Mayor of Watford Dorothy Thornhill said: “It was wonderful to see families making the most of the Big Beach on the opening day.

"It was a hive of activity, with something for everyone to enjoy.”

Watford Borough Council chairman, Kareen Hastrick, was one of the many who enjoyed the first day of the beach.

She said: “It’s something different, it’s outdoors, it brings people together and it gets children away from the TV and consoles.”