A town re-enacted one of most historical events to take place as part of the annual Holy Cross day celebrations.

The celebration which takes place through Waltham Abbey, sees residents carry a replica of a wooden cross which was delivered back in 1035.

The Christian symbol was dug up in Montacute, Somerset and taken to the Essex town by a team of oxen and 66 Saxons, led by lord of the manor Tovi the Proud.

James Tovey, a direct descendent of Tovi the Proud, drove down from Peterborough to lead the procession in honour of his ancestor.

Dressed in the striking Viking costume, Mr Tovey and his wife Helen, an editor of a family heritage magazine, was also part of the event.

The Waltham Abbey Scout group helped carry the cross and represented the oxen at the medieval event on Saturday, May 4.

Town Mayor Jeane Lea was also walked alongside volunteers who participated in the medieval parade which concluded within the grounds of Waltham Abbey Church.

Bells rang out across the town as the cross, said to be carried by 12 red and white oxen, was erected close to its original spot.

According to historic facts, Waltham Abbey and Waltham Cross then grew up around the cross to become an important pilgrimage site.

Today, the town still attracts tourist groups from across the world for its rich history, including France, USA and China.

A church fete and two recently found short films from the 1950s and 1960s were shown as part of days activities.