A HUGE crowd gathered on the High Street of Alloa last week for a close-up meeting with mammals, insects and reptiles.

In the second week of Alloa Town Centre Business Improvement District's (BID) summer programme, children and adults alike petted creatures big and small with Animal Man Mini Zoo at the performance area at the top of the street on Thursday, July 13.

There was a tortoise, a bearded dragon, a snake and much more at the event which saw Alloa's main shopping strip packed with families on a sunny day.

This week the face painters came out as well, with children patiently queuing; meanwhile, Mr Puffin was busy completing all sorts of requests with his balloon model creations.

Passers by also had the chance to enjoy some Italian ice cream while youngsters had the opportunity to grab a bargain with the BID's pocket-money toy sale.

Next Thursday, July 20, will see a performance once again with magician Bob Bonkers who is promised to be a good laugh.

The programme of events, which are free to attend, will run until August 17 which will see an end of summer party with a disco, games, competitions, prizes and special guests.

The shows and performances are on each Thursday between 11.30am and 2.30pm.