Barking and Dagenham Council hosted its annual Big Lunch event outside Barking Town Hall.
The Big Lunch is a national annual event that takes place on the first weekend of June to celebrate community and neighbourliness.
The free event took place on Saturday 6 June and the council encouraged everyone to bring their own cultural foods and don cultural attire.
Volunteer Swathi said: “The Big Lunch was a fantastic event bringing the local community together for a day of fun.
“Events like these make our neighbourhood feel connected and welcoming, and helping out gives me a sense of pride.
“It’s nice to know we’re making a difference.”
The council participates in this event to allow their residents to meet their neighbours and enjoy a variety of reading-themed activities.
A spokesperson for the council said the event was first organised as an opportunity to bring residents together, strengthen neighbourhood connections and celebrate the diversity in the borough.
They added: “Residents were encouraged to bring their own food to share.
“Opportunities for conversation were at the heart of the day, helping foster a stronger sense of belonging and pride in the borough.
“Events like this are a perfect example of how shared experiences can help build stronger, more connected communities.”
June is the month of community in the UK and millions of people take part in volunteering, connecting with their neighbours and supporting local charities.
The Big Lunch was originally started by the Eden Project in 2009.
They partner with organisations such as the Big Help Out and Neighbourhood Watch to run events and initiative throughout the month of June.
Anyone can choose to host their own Big Lunch event all you have to do is sign up on their website and start bringing people together.
Click here to sign up.
Featured image credit: Barking and Dagenham Council
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