Hackney One Carnival returned on Sunday 18 September bringing the borough s streets to life with spectacular costumes, energetic dance and uplifting music.

More than 800 performers from 17 different carnival groups were led by 16 Hackney 2012 Youth Ambassadors as the procession danced its way up the A10 from Ridley Road Market to Stoke Newington Church Street.

Now in its fourth year, the Council-run event brings together performers from carnival and community groups across the borough as part of the Cultural Olympiad - giving residents the opportunity to celebrate arts and culture alongside sports in the run up to the 2012 Games.

Mayor of Hackney Jules Pipe said: "With less than one year to go until the 2012 Games, Hackney One Carnival was a great way for residents to come out and celebrate our role as a host borough and to get involved in an event which celebrates Hackney s communities."

Hackney One Carnival is organised by Hackney Council s 2012 Unit with local carnival groups. Building on Hackney s long history as a host of carnival organisations, Hackney One Carnival encourages communities not traditionally involved in carnival to share the experience and showcase their heritage alongside traditional carnival groups.

Find out more about Hackney One Carnival: www.hackney.gov.uk/onecarnival