Germany closes huge stretch of motorway to hold party

Despite its renowned beer festivals, Germany doesn't have much of a reputation of a great thrower of parties – the Spanish, Italians and even the English are much better at getting down and dirty – but this weekend our Teutonic neighbour showed Europe how to get three million citizens involved in an enormous shindig.

In order to celebrate the Ruhr region, the authorities closed a 40 mile stretch of autobahn between Duisberg and Dortmund, and invited people to join in the fun at 20,000 tables for a giant banquet on Sunday.

We can't think of a better use for a motorway. Click below to see the coverage Associated Press gave the event.