This article appears in today's Leicester Mercury:
City sways to calypso beat
Thousands of people lined the streets of the city on Saturday as the colourful spectacle of the Caribbean Carnival came to town.
Spectators danced to a thumping beat and blew whistles and vuvuzelas as the procession snaked its way in and out of the city centre.
Leaving Victoria Park at about 12.45pm, it made its way down London Road and into the city centre along Charles Street and later on to Granby Street, where rain fell on the parade.
But scores of swaying umbrellas only added to the colour of the occasion.
The line of lorries, floats, hundreds of dancers and young people wearing feathered headdresses and huge sparkling costumes arrived back at Victoria Park at about 4.30pm for the traditional Caribbean party.
Among the crowds enjoying the procession in London Road were Sharon and Charlie Starbuck, of Bagworth.
Sharon, 51, said: "We have been coming for about 10 years and it is the best gig in town.
"The atmosphere is wonderful and joyous. It is simply the best way to spend a Saturday afternoon and evening."
Husband Charlie, 55, said: "What I love about it is that it is totally inclusive. It does not matter who you are, it's a party and everyone is invited irrespective of colour or creed. It is what we love about Leicester."
Charlotte Brown, 25, of the city centre, said: "It is amazing.
"The costumes are so colourful and creative. It is an incredible spectacle and something Leicester should be proud of."
Her brother Julian, eight, said: "It is perfect. I have got a whistle and I love blowing it as loud as I can."
Sharon Thomas brought her daughter McKenzie, seven, into town to see the parade.
Ms Thomas, 41, of Narborough Road, said: "I have seen this procession before and it is a sight to behold. I don't know who comes up with the ideas for the costumes but they are incredible."
McKenzie, seven, said: "It is very good. I would like to be in the parade one year if I could because it looks so much fun."
The party carried on into the evening at Victoria Park.
Stalls selling traditional West Indian cuisine did a roaring trade as people tucked in.
Other stalls providing free activities for children were kept busy as the carnival's family atmosphere prevailed.
The music continued to pound out from a main stage and other stages as the dancing continued despite more rain.
At the park, friends Sophie Barby and Kay Simmonds got into the party mood.
Sophie, 22, of Queens Road, said: "Great atmosphere. Spicy chicken. Banging music. Bring it on."
Kay, 21, of Glenfield, said: "I can't believe how fabulous the whole carnival is. Everyone is here and everyone is just having a great time. It's brilliant."
Nevin Moledina had wandered over to the park with friends from her home in nearby Clarendon Park.
She said: "We come every year to enjoy the lovely relaxed atmosphere.
"It seems to be a bit smaller than previous years but it still a party not to be missed."
Superintendent Stuart Prior, the senior officer in charge of policing the carnival, said: "The carnival has been a great success and has passed off safely with no arrests made.
"I would like to thank the event organisers Leicester Caribbean Carnival, Leicester City Council and the other emergency services for working with us to ensure the event went smoothly.
"It was great to see so many people supporting the carnival despite the heavy rain at times.
"I would like to thank those who attended for their co-operation and motorists for their patience during the procession through the city centre."
Dennis 'Sugar' Christopher, of Leicester Caribbean Carnival, said: "It has been a really successful day with everyone enjoying themselves."I would like to thank each and every one who supported the event and all the agencies and staff who worked to make it possible."
No comments:
Post a Comment