The streets of Watford became a tribute to Roald Dahl at the weekend as the town's first ever literary festival kicked off.

Almost 800 people descended on the town to enjoy the event organised by Watford Borough Council.

The town centre was full of colour and noise for the parade, which kicked off the town's literary festival Big Word Fest.

The two month event will feature workshops, talks, plays and interactive sessions outdoors.

The parade begun with arts and crafts at Watford Museum and finished at Watford Central Library, where children and families took part in making a huge sculpture of the BFG.

Fourteen of Dahl’s best-loved characters - including Willy Wonka, the Oompa Loompas, the witches, the twits and the BFG - led a spectacular parade through the town centre.

The troupe snaked its way down the High Street, through the intu centre and up The Parade to the library, with at least 300 more joining in the fun along the way.

Elected Mayor of Watford Dorothy Thornhill said: “Roald Dahl is probably the greatest children’s author of all time but his stories are adored by people of all ages.

"In celebrating an author who devoted most of his life to making children happy, it is only right that the whole event was free. Everyone should have the chance to join in the magic of Dahl.”

The festival has been organised to coincide with the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death - which is on April 23.