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Hackney One Carnival brings splash of colour to grey Sunday

African drumming and glitzy costumes enliven a cold and rainy day

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Revellers clad in glitzy costumes joined the carnival on Sunday
Revellers clad in glitzy costumes joined the carnival on Sunday. Photograph: Mariano Beguerisse

Hundreds of revellers braved the wind and rain to enjoy the Hackney One Carnival on Sunday.

The council-run event – celebrating the different cultures and creativity of the borough – returned with a programme of events that kicked off at 1pm with African drumming from not-for-profit organisation Open the Gate.

Despite spells of heavy rain and chilly temperatures, people gathered around the two mile route to enjoy live entertainment from passing floats and grab a glimpse of some of the glitzy costumes on show.

The event passed in good spirits with Hackney Police confirming the event was a “huge success” and “no disorder or arrests” had been made.

Users took to social network to praise the carnival.

Sam Ankrah said: “Had a nice time at #hackneycarnival despite the rain”.

Diane Abbott, Labour MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington, tweeted several pictures from the carnival and said it “was a great day”, adding: “Who needs Notting Hill anyway?”

Cllr Jonathan McShane said: “We have a proud history of diversity and creativity in the borough and this colourful event reflects the rich mix of communities and the sense of pride that exists here.”

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