The biggest free fan event in West Ham United’s history attracted nearly 10,000 supporters to London Stadium on Wednesday.

The Family Fun Day gave a unique opportunity to watch the club’s stars train up close at the former Olympic Stadium.

Following the training session, the players had a chance to interact with 300 junior fans who took part in a party on the indoor running track.

The squad also made time to talk to fans as well as pose for photos and sign autographs.

Far from being just an opportunity for fans to meet their heroes, players also took plenty of positives from the event.

Mark Noble said: “We don’t get many opportunities to say thank you to the supporters, but today provided the perfect opportunity to show how much we appreciate them and the incredible support they have given us home and away this season.

“You could tell by the smiles on the lads’ faces how much they were enjoying it and I think it’s important for us to thank the fans for all their efforts.”

“Hopefully we’ve generated some good memories for them to take away. If you think about Andy’s wonder goal against Crystal Palace or Reidy’s last-minute winner against Sunderland, we’ve already had some great days here.”

Hammers manager Slaven Bilic echoed his captain’s sentiments and praised the vocal West Ham fan base, which has supported his team this season.

Bilic said: “I am never surprised by how passionate and devoted our fans are – and today was another example of that.

“When I first heard about the Family Fun Day, I was excited and to get 10,000 turn up is really something special.

“Today just further proves how important West Ham is to the community, so for us to be able to say thank you, and show our appreciation, of course we are happy.”