Caribbean carnival plans for return to mark 40 years

Participants in Leicester's annual Caribbean Carnival wear elaborate costumes

Plans are under way for the return of Leicester Caribbean Carnival to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

Organisers said they were "heartbroken" when they had to cancel the event last year due to financial difficulties, but had now confirmed they aimed to stage the celebration on 2 August.

Carnival committee member Tinu Rodney said this year's event was in the early planning stage, but they wanted to "reclaim the carnival" this year and make it a success.

She said it was "crucial" the next generation was aware of African-Caribbean heritage, folklore and resistance.

Dozens of carnival dancers take part in the parade through the city

The Caribbean carnival in Leicester traditionally includes a parade through the city featuring floats, dancers in elaborate costumes as well as live music, performers, a funfair and food and drink stalls in Victoria Park.

The former Lord Mayor of Leicester, George Cole, of the African Heritage Alliance, which is co-organising the carnival, said: "There is a community group working with Leicester Caribbean Carnival Committee to make sure that carnival happens this year and the celebration of its 40th year be something really special."

Ms Rodney, who said both her children "grew up with the carnival" and had been involved in the troops, said: "If you grew up in Leicester in the 80s and 90s, carnival was a significant part of the year, it was like Christmas.

"It was a big deal, a big day and we are really keen to get that spirit back again as Leicester celebrates 40 years."

The carnival celebrates Caribbean and African heritage

Ms Rodney added: "Understanding the journey Caribbean and African people have been through and the struggle for emancipation is one of the crucial aspects of the carnival.

"It's also about coming together, recognising we are still here and celebrating our diversity."

Carnival chairperson Dennis Christopher said there was a "huge amount of work to do" to make the 2025 carnival happen, but he was "feeling positive" and the plans were moving in the right direction, with many people offering to support the event.