The streets of Notting Hill came to life as the annual carnival returned for 2016, bringing with it some dazzling sights.

Sunday is traditionally the more family-orientated day of the two-day carnival , and hundreds of young performers got involved in the street performances, as well as dancing to the various music on offer throughout the area.

The day began with the traditional j'ouvert celebration, as the more keen carnival-goers emerged at dawn to hurl coloured powder, mud and even chocolate at one another to mark the opening of the first day.

The parade was, as ever, the highlight of what was an overcast and at times wet and miserable day, meaning umbrellas were almost as common a sight as flamboyant costumes.

The rain threatened to spoil the parade as it began late, while visitors took whatever shelter they could as they lined the streets.

But the performers had the final say as they fought back with incredible outfits and dancing to warm the atmosphere and even bring glimpses of blue sky to the crowds that gathered.

While the sound of drumming workshops and sound systems provided a soundtrack to the day, street food and tasty drinks provided the fuel for the revellers, who got fully involved in the spectacle.

The carnival continues on Monday, as west Londoners, and hundreds of thousands fro further afield get a second chance to enjoy their bank holiday weekend with a packed list of attractions on offer again .

See the parade begin as crowds brave the rain

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