THOUSANDS of people left their cars at home to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment and food from around the world.

Visitors were encouraged to walk to Car Free Day in Leytonstone town centre and roads were closed to make way for games, food and bric a brac stalls.

'Mr and Mrs Bubbles' entertained children with balloons and music and there were mountain bike displays from Think Bikes.

The free annual event, organised by Waltham Forest Council, is part of a worldwide event to raise awareness about environmental matters, sustainable living and to encourage people to walk and cycle more.

In the former Woolworths building, visitors picked up information from stalls about cycling, conserving energy and other tips for green living.

The event finishes at 7pm today and roads to the town centre will remain closed to traffic until the stalls and stage are cleared away.