THE WHOLE town came out to show their support for a library under threat from the council.

More than four thousand people celebrated Hale End Library, in Highams Park, at the first ever Love Hale End Library Day on Saturday (April 22).

As part of a campaign to increase the library’s use, the event sprawled across Highams Park from its site in The Avenue to the Overground station car park.

Last year the council backtracked over its plans to move the library to smaller premises in Signal Walk, near the Tesco superstore.

It followed a campaign which gathered thousands of signatures in opposition to the plans with further thousands joining online groups in solidarity.

Among the attractions on the day were a vintage market, a 3D printer and workshops on everything from making a torch to learning how to darn.

The event featured readings from children’s authors Sophy Henn, Michelle McKenna and Neal Zetter.

It also marked the official launch of hSpark Radio, Highams Park's new internet radio station.

The Station car park was also brought to life with children’s rides and a Pop Up Library, showcasing more of what the library has to offer.

Chrina Jarvis said of the day: “It was brilliant seeing so many people of all ages exploring Hale End Library and finding out more about library services and facilities such as room hire.

"Events like this really do show it has a vital place at the heart of the community, and is much loved by the residents of Highams Park.”

The event was organised by the Highams Park Planning Group with Ward Forum Funding.

For more information on future library events, or hiring a room at Hale End Library, visit: www.highamsparkplan.org or join the Facebook Group.