The streets and skies of Barking and Dagenham were illuminated as families gathered for a winter lantern parade.

The event, which culminated in a firework display at Valence Park, was part of the Becontree Forever scheme to celebrate the estate's 100th anniversary.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Fireworks in Valence ParkFireworks in Valence Park (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

According to Barking and Dagenham Council, which organised the parade from Henry Green Primary School to the park and the subsequent celebration, around 6,000 people turned up to join in the fun.

Organised in partnership with Creative Barking and Dagenham, the parade featured 400 people who had made illuminated big-head puppets and lanterns. Workshops took place with Henry Green, Becontree and Valence primary schools, as well as with families living nearby.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Participants in the winter lantern paradeParticipants in the winter lantern parade (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

Deputy leader and cabinet member for community leadership and engagement at Barking and Dagenham Council, Cllr Saima Ashraf, said: “It was an incredible sight to see, with so many young people from the borough lighting up the streets to celebrate 100 years of the Becontree estate and marking such an important part of our history.

“Families came and enjoyed our wonderful fireworks display and it was a joyous and special event full of fun, great entertainment and community spirit.”

Barking and Dagenham Post: Lanterns in the paradeLanterns in the parade (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

Barking and Dagenham Post: Entertainment in Valence ParkEntertainment in Valence Park (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

Barking and Dagenham Post: Lanterns in the paradeLanterns in the parade (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)