Schoolchildren from Borehamwood were able to meet some celebrities from the showbusiness world at the Environmental Health Christmas Fair in Hertsmere.

Only these particular stars of film and television were small, scaly and, for some people, rather frightening.

More than 400 pupils had the opportunity to handle snakes, spiders, turtles and millipedes from Hertfordshire-based firm Animals Work at the annual extravaganza at the Civic Offices in Borehamwood on Thursday (6 December).

The company specialises in supplying animals for film and television work, as well as parties and corporate events.

The fair teaches children about the impact of noise pollution and the importance of recycling, exercise, healthy eating and food hygiene through interactive displays.

The children were also given guidance on washing their hands to ensure good personal hygiene.

In addition, they had a go at shouting in a noise booth to learn about different decibel levels; produced their own nutritious drink using pedal power on a smoothie-making bike and found out about the different types of bees that exist.

A video is also available of the children trying out a noise booth at the fair.