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Nottingham city centre was filled with the sound of samba on Sunday 5th July when 1,500 performers danced their way to The Forest recreation ground.
The Caribbean Carnival parade brightened up Friar Lane and Old Market Square with colourful costumes, before making its way up Derby Road.
At the front was Sarena Kay, leading the Nottingham School of Samba, children from Our Lady Primary School, in Bulwell, and 26 other troupes. Sarena, 27, from Forest Fields, said it was an honour to be at the head of the parade. She said: "It takes weeks of practice to do the dances, but we really love the music and the party atmosphere."
Ruel Stewart, 45, an assistant pastor from the Shekinah church group based in Gedling, was dressed as a giant dove. He said: "We wanted to bring a message of peace to Nottingham city and say 'Get rid of gun and knife crime'." Mr Stewart was joined by dancers from the Shekinah and the New Testament church groups. Immani Campbell, 14, had co-ordinated the dance with Shanade Williams, 12, and Jannell Williams, 16. She said: "We love the atmosphere and dancing, and we've come to show that you can be in the church and have as much fun as other people."
Hundreds of spectators lined the parade route. Leah Morgan 41, a sales rep from Bakersfield, watching for the first time, said: "It's so energetic and lively, and the costumes are fantastic."
The parade ended at The Forest recreation ground, where live music and activities were held on Saturday and Sunday.
Richard Renwick, Tuntum Chief Executive and chairman of the carnival trust, said he believed this year's event was the biggest yet. He said: "We expect to have reached and entertained at least 50,000 over the weekend, this is great for community cohesion.." Mr Renwick said he believed the good weather had helped boost numbers.
Following the parade Beenie Man headlined the Carnival Main Stage. Beenie Man has lots of international number one hit singles namely Sim Sima, Dancehall Queen, Who Am I and King of The Dance Hall to name a few. His contribution to the music industry is immeasurable and his work was recognised in by the University of The West Indies, when they honored him with his doctorial title, so he has since become known as “The Doctor”.
Beenie Man is the embodiment of an authentic recording artiste; he can sing, DJ, dance and is considered a fashion icon.