Hundreds enjoy samba-style carnival in Finsbury Park

Three-hundred Islington schoolchildren took part in a colourful South American carnival.

Youngsters donned face paint, colourful masks and carried homemade banners and flags from Marriott Road to Wray Crescent, Finsbury Park, playing flutes and recorders as they walked.

The parade also featured a 60-strong samba band, dancers, and a float donated by building firm Balfour Beatty.

Organiser Ashley Greya, of Islington Arts and Media School (IAMS), in Turle Road, Finsbury Park, said: “As we came out of the school gates my heart almost stopped – there were so many children. The sun was shining and it was glorious.”

Children from nine Islington primary schools, including around 80 children of South American descent, took part.

Brazilian IAMS pupil Fabricio De Novais, 16, said: “It was the best carnival I’ve ever been to.”

The event, which took place last Wednesday, was organised by IAMS in conjunction with the charity Music First.