The founder of Chingford's biggest annual summer event has said this year's line-up is the largest she has ever had to co-ordinate.

On Saturday, thousands of families and residents young and old will gather in Station Road for the return of the Chingford Village Festival, sponsored by the Chingford Guardian

Up to 40 different acts are expected to perform and entertain crowds on the day, from marching bands to street dancers and choir singers.

Schools, shops, brigades, cadets and talented musical acts have jumped on board after last year's event was cancelled due to organiser Irene Bull having a broken ankle and a lack of funding.

And despite the leaflets being laminated and distributed weeks ago, new groups are still signing up to the independently-run event.

In the last few days, the 15th Chingford Scout Group has signed up to offer sumo wrestling wearing inflatable suits, and a helium balloon race with prizes available to people who then find the balloon once it returns from the sky.

London Assembly member Jeanette Arnold OBE says she was "delighted" to officially open the event surrounded by food and drink stalls and music stands on Chingford Green at midday.

Irene Bull, 60, said the festival has been very well-received by local businesses, schools and voluntary organisations.

She said: "It has been going very well and I've had such amazing feedback and good will gestures.

"This is by far the biggest line-up and I've been inundated with requests from the local community.

"I think people are drawn to getting involved more so than ever because it was cancelled last year and is a lot more free-spirited than a council event."

Most of the acts have been given short slots to perform either in open spaces or across the four indoor venues along Station Road - Mornington Hall, Loco Lounge, St Peter and St Pauls Church and Vestry Hall.

If anyone is interesting in setting up a stall on the day, Ms Bull has two remaining slots available. For more information, please email irenebull@hotmail.co.uk