This makes the news that the Carnival 2005 is in turmoil even more disturbing. The Notting Hill Carnival Company are at odds with the Mayors office.

People are asking “Why has Notting Hill Carnival not received funding?” “Why the need to create a separate event, on the same weekend?”

Stories of outstanding bills, grants, that have never materialised, The promise of Carnival funding and then failing to deliver it. The blame is being thrown back and forth.

The Mayor’s office has complained of lack of organisation, competence, and failure to respond to given proposals.

The news of the ‘Complimentary Event’, aimed at 5,000 people, held on the same weekend as Carnival, has been a surprise, and upset many in the community. Many performers have vowed to boycott the ‘Caribbean Showcase’ in Hyde Park, and continue to support Carnival.

Many believe that Ken Livingstone has had a long term plan to take control of the event, considering the size of Carnival and the huge revenue that it can ‘potentially’ bring.

Every year they block off more and more roads, (parts of inner Notting Hill are like ghost towns during Carnival. Portobello Road has nothing on it), and they suggest moving it for crowd safety! Carnival violence seems to be hyped up or down depending on the current agenda. There will always be a rogue element within any large group, and when you consider the amount of people present, the figues are pretty good. I wonder what the crime rate in Notting Hill is like on other weekends?

No amount of funding can replace the spirit of Carnival, it would never happen if it wasn’t for the volunteers. Year after year they contribute their free time and resources.

However, as Notting Hill gentrifies, and the community buildings and other resources are sold off to make way for luxury apartments, the community finds it harder to stay together. Pan Yards and major community centres have closed down and the streets are slowly cleared of Caribbean community activities.

The first carnival was held in Trinidad 1833, along with ‘Abolition of the Slavery Act. Notting Hill Carnival is an important expression of Caribbean culture in London. It made Notting Hill world famous, long before the movie came along.

Hopefully, with funding from other areas, and the scores of volunteers, and participants, Notting Hill Carnival will remain a true representation.

Thank you to R.S. of West London, for sending in this article.