Carnival to go ahead despite fears

But an early finish time has been set for Britain’s biggest street party alongside beefed up security amid fears of more violence.

The event will now begin at the early time of 9am and finish at 7pm on August 28 and 29.

The carnival, which has become a social institution in London, was given the green light after organisers held talks with police and key stakeholders.

There are usually 6,000 officers on duty for the event – but that figure is likely to soar this year.

The annual west London street parade, which celebrates Caribbean culture, began in 1964 and attracted more than one million people last year.

Organisers said they had received a lot of support from the public “who feel that carnival is an uplifting event... and it must not suffer because of the unlawful actions of a small minority”.

Additional police officers and stewards will also be on duty to provide extra cover, they said.

Christopher Boothman, co-director of London Notting Hill Carnival Ltd, said: “Trouble makers or those who seek to cast a shadow over this vibrant event are not welcome and shouldn’t be allowed to spoil it for thousands of others. We want everyone to come early, enjoy carnival and get home safely.”