Hackney Central Safer Neighbourhoods team was on hand to patrol the Winter Wonderland event in St John’s Churchyard Gardens in Lower Clapton Road, but ended up having some Christmas fun.

Officers entered into the Christmas spirit by donning skates and taking to the ice along with Hackney youngsters.

PC Tony Farrelly-Smith, from the Hackney Central Safer Neighbourhoods team, said: “This has given us the opportunity to meet and speak to so many children and adults.

“We are here to ensure their safety but also to show that we are approachable, friendly and there to help, when needed.”

The Hackney Winter Festival was took place on December 2 and was organised by the council , St John-at-Hackney Church, and shops and businesses in the Narrow Way.

For further information about your local Safer Neighbourhoods team, please visit www.met.police.uk/hackney