A day celebrating innovative ideas and technology has been held in Kent town.

The Innovation Showcase took place in venues across Gravesend with experts from leading universities sharing their knowledge with the public.

One of the most popular exhibits on display was the Crawlybots - four-wheeled flexible robots with large LED eyes that can display animal characteristics.

John McKiernan, founder of Fourth Portal which organized the showcase, said the event gave "a glimpse into the future and how it can improve and affect everyone’s life positively".

The use of robotics, AI, and improved research was discussed in a program of free events with the aim of displaying the opportunities available to local people.

Andy Payne from Mechanismo Ltd, which designed the Crawlybots, said he was keen to encourage a new generation to combine science and art to create items that can be used in the future.

"The main reason we go out and do these things is to bring joy, enthuse, and encourage people to play and explore with new technology.

Many businesses along the High Street hosted events, including Julius Caesar Restaurant where a team from the University of Nottingham led by Dr Alan Chamberlain held a series of talks.

“I think it’s important to come to places such as this," said Dr Chamberlain. "It gives academics like me the opportunity to talk to the general public to get their opinions on what’s important to them in regards to AI and robotics."

Emil Otto Munteanu, who is from Gravesend and studying computer science at the University of Nottingham, added: "It fills me with hope for the future to see the revitalization of my town that has gone through so much, especially throughout the last few years.”

Volunteer Sabrina Ferrazza said she hoped the event would help turn North Kent into a technology hub, adding: "I hope Gravesend gets more opportunities to innovate and grow as a community."

Ann-Marie Langley, visiting from Maidstone, said it was great to see new technology in the area and "exciting to see where it can lead".