World flocks to carnival protected by huge hi-tech security operation

EUROPE’S BIGGEST street party got under way yesterday as performers took to the streets to celebrate the world-famous Notting Hill Carnival.

More than a million visitors were expected to attend the celebrations in west London yesterday, the day dedicated to children and families.

At least 60 bands will perform and 38 sound systems will be in place over the two-day event, which continues today, ending with its Grand Finale.

There is a heavy police presence in place as the Met has introduced advanced security measures, including a facial recognition system. The “super-recognisers” will be inside a CCTV control room seeking out both offenders committing crimes and anyone with bail conditions which ought to prevent them from attending the event.

The carnival, celebrating Caribbean culture in London, was first held in the 1960s and now attracts visitors from all over the world.

Its can be traced back to the Caribbean carnivals of the early 19th century – a particularly strong tradition in Trinidad – which celebrated the abolition of slavery and the slave trade.