Thousands came out to enjoy the first burst of summer sunshine over the weekend, with picnics and garden parties taking place across the borough’s parks and green spaces.

Many were organised as part of the Big Lunch, an informal event that began at the Eden Project and has the simple aim of bringing people together in an act of community and friendship.

There were official “lunches” in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Forest Gate Community Garden while the council put on garden parties as part of its celebration of the borough’s 50th anniversary at New Beckton Park and Memorial Park, Canning Town.

Cllr Clark said: “The two events proved to be fantastic successes with fun for every member of the family.”

Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales and Cllr Ken Clark joined residents at Memorial Park where entertainment was laid on from dance shows and roller skating display to a performance from the Every Child a Musician Orchestra.

Families at New Beckton Park saw local rappers, singers and dancers provide the fun while over at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park a string quartet and face painting kept the crowds happy.

Then there were the hundreds who simply seized the chance to head outside, soak up some sun and scoff an ice cream.

View our gallery for more pictures on the day.