A youth centre is looking for money to realise its dream of taking part in the Notting Hill Carnival .

The Venture Centre in Ladbroke Grove needs £5,000 by May 20 in order to hire a float and create costumes so that some 40 children can take part in the annual celebration.

It has turned to the civic crowdfunding platform, Spacehive, in a bid to raise the money so the children can join the parade and in the process learn how to make their own carnival costumes and find out about the event’s history.

More than 200 local children use the centre in Wornington Road, which also helps the community in a number of other ways , for a variety of activities each week including its steel pan band and the adventure playground.

Centre director Nammi Padi said: “This is an opportunity for our kids to partake in local life, building their sense of pride in their neighbourhood.

"It’s also an opportunity for the children to learn craftsman skills as well as teamwork; an opportunity for them to build their confidence, explore their creative side, and learn about carnival culture and traditions.”

Eleven-year-old Nadya who is hoping to appear at the carnival said: “I love going to carnival and it would be amazing to be part of the parade. I really hope everyone can support our project!”

To pledge support for the Venture Kids Carnival click here .