Stevenage went animal crackers on Friday with donkeys, snakes and llamas among the species trotting and slithering along for a day out in the town centre.

The Comet: Children enjoying a donkey ride in Stevenage at the Animal Crackers eventChildren enjoying a donkey ride in Stevenage at the Animal Crackers event (Image: Archant)

Birds of prey, balloon modelling and inflatable rides were also in town for the popular family event.

The Comet: Stevenage town centre manager Tina Benson with a llama at the Animal Crackers eventStevenage town centre manager Tina Benson with a llama at the Animal Crackers event (Image: Archant)

Stevenage town centre manager Tina Benson said afterwards: “Turning the town centre animal-tastic with a mobile petting farm, donkey rides, and birds of prey was great fun so thank you to all the children and families that came along.

The Comet: Tina Benson braving a snake at the Animal Crackers eventTina Benson braving a snake at the Animal Crackers event (Image: Archant)

“Our town centre summer events programme has been a huge hit so far, so much so that we’re making Animal Crackers an annual event so keep Friday, August 10, free in your diaries next year.

The Comet: The Animal Crackers event in Stevenage town centreThe Animal Crackers event in Stevenage town centre (Image: Archant)

“There is still loads more to come this summer including Stevenage International Day and our movie weekender so remember to follow @lovestevenagetc on Facebook and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest news and events.”