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Celebrating 50 years of Leeds West Indian Carnival

BBC Carnival attendeesBBC
The carnival is celebrating its 50th anniversary in August

The "oldest carnival in Europe" is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

The West Indian Carnival in Leeds, which was launched in 1967, will be held in Potternewton Park over the August bank holiday weekend.

An exhibition recording its heritage, political and cultural legacy is planned for the city's Tetley gallery.

The event, which attracts more than 100,000 people, will culminate in a parade through Chapeltown and Harehills.

A 50-strong carnival choir and a week of new plays at the West Yorkshire Playhouse will help mark the anniversary.

Keith Pattison Charis Betts, Leeds Carnival Queen 2015Keith Pattison
Organisers say the event features "jaw-dropping costumes" and "infectious tropical rhythms"
Guy Farrar Carnival founder Arthur FranceGuy Farrar
The event was founded by Arthur France in 1967

Talking about the inspiration for the celebrations, founder Arthur France, said: "We needed something to bring us together and where you don't need an invite, so you just come."