London’s biggest outdoor event Notting Hill carnival has begun with a tribute to the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire disaster.
This year’s festival, a celebration of Caribbean culture and traditions which began in 1966, took place in the shadow of the tragedy in which 80 people died.
Those attending the festival had been urged to wear green to show their support for those affected by the blaze in the 24-storey tower block on June 14.
Organisers encouraged visitors to go "green for Grenfell" in a display of "reverence and respect amidst the revelry". Handmade green hearts and streamers made in the days running up to Carnival adorned the streets.
At the opening of the two-day celebration, London’s mayor Sadiq Khan said the event was taking place “in the context of sadness and sorrow” and added: “So this carnival weekend, we honour the victims.”
Festival-goers dressed in green to remember those affected by the fire. Eddie Keogh/ Reuters
The charity single Bridge Over Troubled Water was sung by Brenda Emmanuel and a group multi-faith prayer was held at special ceremony as "a small act of remembrance" for Grenfell. Mr Khan joined community leaders and survivors in releasing doves in tribute to the victims.
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