Twickenham’s notorious game of tug of war returns this June at the annual Twickenham Festival along with an exciting list of other events.

The old-school game kicks off the Twickenham Festival off on June 9 with 13 teams, made up from local business, battling it out to be crowned the 2017 winners as huge crowds cheer them on.

Now in its 22nd year, the family event is jam-packed full of al fresco activities, crafts, fetes and street food markets throughout the borough until June 25.

Shona Lyons, member of Twickenham Town Business Association, said: “The tug of war draws a huge crowd these days attracting lots of families, friends and their children.

“Businesses from all over Twickenham want to take part and we are totally oversubscribed – we even have a business this year that supplies crews to the Olympics!”

The popular 'Church Street Goes Green' event will also return this year on the 17 and 18 June featuring an inviting mix of stalls, street food, plant stalls and entertainment.

Inspired by the historic Victorian picnics, the festival is inviting the community to get creative and take part in its first 'Church Street’s big picnic' event taking place on June 25 by bringing their own and dining al fresco with friends and family.

“I think the whole thing is about celebrating good things in the community and give them something to look forward to and be able to enjoy with their family and friends,” Ms Lyons added.

“It is so cohesive for the community and gives people and local companies to promote their own products and events – celebrating what they do best.”

The Twickenham festival isn’t just for people to enjoy but man’s best friend is getting the chance to participate in the festival’s dog show and the gruelling sit-and-stay sausage eating challenge.

Hosted by the Twickenham riverside trust and Richmond council, owners can enter their pooches into one of the nine competition categories as they strut their stuff on June 10 in the Diamond Jubilee Gardens.

Throughout the festival friends, families and children from all over can enjoy charity auctions, fitness events, craft markets, live music, treasure hunts, brewery tours and lots more.

For more information on the festival which takes place June 9 – 25 visit www.twickenhamthetown.org.uk