Boat racing, paddle boarding and street food are among entertainment on offer in Putney this weekend as part of the Thames Festival.

Activities kicked off today with a mini fun fair, food shacks, gift stalls, a poetry performance and a kids’ dance workshop in Church Square.

The main event is the Totally Thames Putney Fun Day tomorrow, Saturday, September 12 from 10am to 5pm with the first boats in the Great River Race expected to pass by at midday.

Throughout the day 320 boats will row through Putney as part of the 21 mile course, crews come from around the world, many sporting fancy dress.

There will be plenty to do with a whole host of events including Punch and Judy shows, stalls along the Embankment, a Radio Jackie Roadshow, street dance performances, a demonstration from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and live music in Church Square and St Mary’s Church.

To commemorate the Putney Debates of 1647, there will be a presentation on the Levellers by Professor Justin Champion at 2pm.

In true street party style, children and adults are invited to create chalk pavement drawings inspired by the River Thames.

For the more energetic, Active 360 will be offering paddle boarding taster sessions and experienced paddle boarders can join an instructor-led session to Kew Bridge.

Live musical performances will continue through to Sunday in Church Square.

The weekend has been organised by the Putney Partnership and is part of the Thames Festival.

Going to the festival this weekend? Send your photos to louisa.clarence@london.newsquest.co.uk.