Thousands of people lined the streets of Hanwell on Saturday (18 June 2022) to welcome the return of the Hanwell Carnival after Covid forced the cancellation of London’s oldest community parade in 2020 and 2021.
Colourful floats along with hundreds of people from local community groups commenced the 2.3 mile journey from Hanwell Community Centre in Cuckoo Avenue and arrived at Elthorne Park. From robots to local scouts, Hanwell’s diverse communities were represented.
At Elthorne Park, revellers of all ages were greeted to an afternoon of fun and enjoyment as well as an opportunity to take part in prize raffles and donate to many local worthy causes.
“Hanwell Carnival was in full swing on Saturday, starting with the parade from Hanwell Community Centre to Elthorne Park,” said Des McManus, treasurer Hanwell Carnival. “The decorated floats really were something to behold. Attendance in the park was around 25,000 over the whole day. The music stages were amazing and completely full of energy from both the performers and the audience. The weather just about held up even if it was a bit cold at times and we hope all the stallholders had a profitable day!”
Local dignitaries including newly elected mayor of Ealing Councillor Mohinder Midha along with former Ealing North MP Stephen Pound were in attendance. The mayor said on twitter of being at the event: “Delight to attend the Hanwell Carnival”.
Other councillors attending included Hanwell North councillor Claire Tighe who said: “Excellent Hanwell Carnival today with very creative artwork by Andrea for the parade! The oldest of its kind in London and still going strong. Great to be there as part of the Ealing Labour team.”
Councillor Aysha Raza, portfolio holder for tackling inequality visited many of the local groups attending and highlighted the work they do during the afternoon.
