Community spirit was alive and well in Balham on Sunday as the annual Ritherdon Road street party took place.

For the first time in the event's history, a road closure at Balham High Road meant the whole road could be used for the street party, helping to create the biggest ever event.

Cllr Richard Field, the new Mayor of Wandsworth, said: "It's a fantastic event: a wonderful afternoon with a great community spirit. Everyone looks very happy."

There were 55 stallholders, and a kids' fairground ride, and professional entertainment kept the crowds happy from 11-5pm.

Kim Steel, who lives in Ritherdon Road, said: "It's the best one ever. I love the road being closed and it going all across the street now. It feels like a real street party."

Stalls included Vietnamese street food, ice cream, crepes and cheeses, as well as jewellery, pet treats, fashion, and toys.

There was a music stage for the first year with The Thumping Tommys, Tony Bowen (The Human Jukebox) and Tony Moore from The Bedford pub sharing the bill with The Balham Ukelele Society and The Haywood Sisters.

Jackson estate agents sponsored the event to raise money for Beyond Autism, a charity that runs two specialist schools in the borough.

Robert Trindle from Jacksons, said: "We have been sponsoring The Ritherdon Road Street Party for the last three years and have been delighted to do so.

"We've always used the occasion to raise money for a chosen charity and this year raised well in excess of £1000. It was a fantastic event."

Gill Skrzypczak, one of the organisers, said: "We would like to thank everyone involved: the wonderful performers, support staff, sponsors and businesses involved, and of course the lovely people who attended. It was a truly amazing day."

Ms Skrzypczak raised £366 for Breast Cancer Care, Jo's Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action through a raffle.

The next event will be Balham Food Festival, on September 25.