Carnival serves up a glorious feast of fun

The sun had kept away for 
most of the bank holiday weekend, but emerged to highlight the rainbow delights of the city’s annual Caribbean extravaganza.

Tens of thousands of people flocked to watch the event, which has become a beacon of solidarity and community harmony for Leeds.

The day began at Potternewton Park, where early arrivals enjoyed some sizzling Caribbean snacks and preview entertainment.

As the parade wound its way through inner city 
Leeds, through Chapeltown, Harehills and circled the 
city centre, the glorious menagerie of hand-made costumes were a sight to 
behold.

There was a smile on every face as people of all backgrounds and ages mingled freely.

Local Chapeltown councillor Mohammed Rafique, who joined the crowds to watch the procession, said: “It’s a wonderful occasion.

“I think there are well in excess of 100,000 people out converging in the streets of Chapeltown and Harehills.

“That’s excellent for Leeds, 
it’s good for Chapeltown, it’s good for the local economy 
and it’s good for multi culturalism, cohesion and integration.

“This is the 10th carnival for me as a councillor for the area, and every year it gets better and better.

“There’s nothing better than this to send an excellent message for peace and harmony.”