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Police Promise Heavy Presence at Notting Hill Carnival

Published

3 months ago

Aug 24, 2024.

Police Promise Heavy Presence at Notting Hill Carnival

The Metropolitan Police have announced that a “very significant policing presence” will be in place at this year’s Notting Hill Carnival, with 7,000 officers set to be on duty.

The Police made this announcement weeks after riots and violent incidents occurred across the UK.

Matthew Phillip, the chief executive of the Notting Hill Carnival, highlighted the event’s enduring purpose in light of recent unrest.

“Carnival was created to bring together communities from diverse backgrounds, and nearly 60 years later, it remains the biggest celebration of inclusion and social cohesion in the UK,” he said.

This year’s carnival is expected to draw around one million participants, continuing its tradition as one of the UK’s longest-running street festivals.

Originating in the 1960s, the Notting Hill Carnival was established to unify London’s immigrant communities, particularly celebrating Caribbean culture.

The event features a vibrant parade with performers in elaborate costumes, accompanied by lively dancing and music.

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Shauna Narine, who has been participating in carnivals since she was 18, noted that the celebration holds deep significance.

“The carnival reflects the impact the Windrush generation had on London, so much so that the entire city comes together to celebrate,” Narine said as she prepared her bright pink costume for the upcoming parade.

She emphasized the importance of the carnival this year, especially in the wake of recent protests.

“Those protests were fueled by hatred and negativity. In contrast, the carnival is all about love and unity. I believe that love will always triumph over hate, and this year’s celebration will be incredibly powerful,” she added.

Despite the carnival’s festive atmosphere, it has seen its share of violence in recent years. Over the past two events, there have been more than 500 arrests, 15 stabbings, including one fatality, and more than 125 assaults on police officers.

In response, the Metropolitan Police have assured that there will be a significant and proportionate policing presence to ensure the safety of all attendees.

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