More than 2,700 attended the annual open day at Twickenham police station.

People stopped by to try their hand at solving a crime, learn how to save a life with CPR and meet the police force’s trusty animals.

The Met’s cycle safety team offered free bicycle marking and advice about bicycle protection.

Officers gave talks about body-worn video, the new technology which has recently arrived on Richmond’s streets.

Children had the chance to meet police dogs and horses, and with the help of Richmond’s volunteer police cadets, could be fingerprinted and take away their own wanted posters.

The day also featured performances by local rock’n’roll band Nark Drool and the Shudders.

Overall, the event raised £300 for Richmond’s Poppy Factory, which manufactures remembrance poppies and wreathes for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal, employing veterans with health conditions or impairments.

Richmond borough commander Parm Sandhu said, “I was delighted to see so many people come along and find out about their local police, it was really pleasing to see that the event was so well attended.

"So many aspects of policing were on display and people were truly fascinated by them. The day gave people the opportunity to engage with us in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere."