Hitchin residents were welcomed behind the scenes at their local police station for a special open day packed with activities for all ages.

The event gave visitors a rare chance to explore the station and meet the officers who work to keep the community safe. Highlights included the opportunity to look around a police car, police van and quad bikes, as well as learning more about the day-to-day role of neighbourhood policing teams.

Needless to say kids enjoyed turning the sirens on and off a lot.

For younger visitors, there was plenty to enjoy with a children's colouring competition, finger printing sessions, and even the chance to make their own police ID card to take home.

Officers were on hand to answer questions, showcase some of their equipment, and chat about policing life in Hitchin.

The open day was designed as a family-friendly event, helping to build closer links between the community and its local police force.

The only unresolved question was whether the Ice Cream van in the car park is a permanent fixture…