Artist Karen Barnett established  the Thornton Heath Carnival procession as she thought it would be a highly visual way of celebrating the community and its creativity. 

Thornton Heath Festival celebrates its tenth anniversary on Sunday and will see a fun packed day ahead wth the return of some old favourites as well as some new acts offering up some of the best local talent to enjoy.

There have been a marvellous array of themes and carnival processional pieces made over the last few years.

These have included: 6ft puppets, giant peacocks, sharks, whales, octopi, pirates, butterflies, and Olympic torches.

This year the theme is TOGETHER featuring flocks of colourful birds, swathes of flowers, hearts and even the Thornton Heath Clock Tower!

The procession teams up with Russian dancers, belly-dancers, steel pans, Dhol drums, pipe band and parade of nations including visiting Notting Hill dancers.

Karen said: “This is a fabulous way to celebrate. It reflects our rich diversity and our sense of community. Everyone has their own traditions of parade and carnivals and this is a great culmination and unique sharing of that.”

If you want to be part of the procession you can make a piece to parade at a special carnival making workshop at The Art Hive, Grangewood Park on Saturday 2nd Sept 11am-12.

Alternatively, just come along on the day. Meet outside the Thornton Heath Leisure Centre at 2.45pm for 3pm start.

More details visit artintheparkwithkaren

Bookings: kbcuppatea@yahoo.co.uk