EastEnders star Jake Wood was at Islington Police Station on Saturday to thank the children who brightened up the front of the building.

Children from Barnard Park Adventure Playground, in Copenhagen Street, Barnsbury, have worked with street artists to give metal statues outside the station, in Tolpuddle Street, a new look.

As well as meeting the TV star, youngsters tried on riot gear, watched a dog handler in action and visited the holding cells.

Bill Coleman, a playworker at Barnard Park, said: “We had a great time and the kids really enjoyed it. It was a reward for the hard work they have done painting the statues, which look amazing.

“They loved getting into character. The whole thing was a good experience and it was nice to make that link with the local police.”