VIDEO: Don't rain on our Parade (From Wandsworth Guardian)

VIDEO: Rain fails to dampen spirits at West Croydon Carnival of Cultures

5:50am Thursday 27th September 2012 in Freetime By Hannah Williamson

Rain failed to dampen spirits as hundreds turned out for the first West Croydon Carnival of Cultures.

Organised by the West Croydon Community Forum, a community group of residents and businesses, the event on Sunday was held to showcase the hard work of the community following last summer's riots.

The festival, aimed to highlight the wealth of cultures and nationalities in West Croydon, took place along London Road.

Despite frequent downpours, about 800 people attended the all day family event which included fairground rides, children's entertainment, food stalls, carnival parade and a stage show with over 20 acts.

It is hoped the event, which was funded by Croydon Council's riot recovery fund, will become an annual celebration.

Jennifer Speid, chairwoman of the West Croydon Community Forum Festival Group, said: "I am very, very happy with how it went.

"Even though the weather was so awful, people came down and we had some really good, positive feedback.

"The acts on stage performed brilliantly and the carnival acts in the parade were fantastic. Both the adults and the children had won first prize at the Notting Hill Carnival.

"I think considering it was the first event it went very well. Traders have already been in touch about next year, we are hoping this event will become annual."