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Thousands gather for carnival fun Police ready for carnival crowds
(about 3 hours later)
The Notting Hill Carnival is under way, with thousands gathering on the streets of west London to enjoy the fun. Hundreds of thousands of people are gathering in west London for the start of the Notting Hill Carnival.
The two-day event begins with Children's Day, which is traditionally more family-friendly and features floats carrying dancers and performers. A massive police operation is under way for the two-day event with officers serving an estimated 11,000 shifts throughout the carnival.
Monday is expected to attract much bigger crowds who will be marching the route which runs from Ladbroke Grove to Westbourne Park. The event is the world's second largest street party.
About 11,000 police officers are providing security for the event. An intelligence operation began in May targeting offenders from previous carnivals, with 21 people arrested so far.
A total of 19 people have already been arrested in police raids across London ahead of the carnival aimed at targeting suspected criminals thought to be heading for the event. The largest crowds are due to arrive on Monday for a march which runs the route from Ladbroke Grove to Westbourne Park.
"We want people to come and enjoy the carnival atmosphere," said Professor Chris Mullard, chairman of the Notting Hill Carnival Board Ltd."We want people to come and enjoy the carnival atmosphere," said Professor Chris Mullard, chairman of the Notting Hill Carnival Board Ltd.
"However, those seeking to cause trouble should think again as they will not be welcome and will be dealt with firmly by the police and stewards.""However, those seeking to cause trouble should think again as they will not be welcome and will be dealt with firmly by the police and stewards."
The theme for this year's carnival is the bicentenary of the abolition of the slave trade and a reminder of the modern forms of slavery which persists in parts of the world.The theme for this year's carnival is the bicentenary of the abolition of the slave trade and a reminder of the modern forms of slavery which persists in parts of the world.
Have you been to the Notting Hill Carnival this weekend? If so, send your pictures to: yourpics@bbc.co.ukHave you been to the Notting Hill Carnival this weekend? If so, send your pictures to: yourpics@bbc.co.uk
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