HUNDREDS of people are descending on Valentines Park in Ilford for the annual Redbridge Carnival.

People of all ages are attending the event, which runs today and tomorrow.

Dance, singing and artist performances by local groups are taking place throughout today and tomorrow on a stage.

Woodford-based Alexandra School of Performing Arts have been wowing spectators with an eclectic mix of peformances including ballet, tap-dancing and hip hop dancing.

Pan Ultimate steel band have also been entertaining with their energetic performances, including a version of Michael Jackson's Thriller.

Organiser Wilson Chowdhry said: “Every act is from Redbridge, and this is what this day is all about, local people.

“This should make people realise we have as much talent as any other borough.

“This event attracts people from all backgrounds all ethnic groups, it does more for community cohesion than anything else.”

As well as the live entertainment visitors have also been enjoying a fun fair, refreshments and stalls manned by a members of local groups and organisations.

Children have been enjoying a bouncy castle and circus tricks and juggling lessons organised by the Circus Company.

For the first time at the carnival there are football games organised by Air Football, an organisation which organises sports training for young people who have problems with alcohol or drug addiction, with mental health or homelessness.

A team representing Redbridge beat Newham by eight goals to four.

The day's activities go on until 8pm today.

But the main event is tomorrow, when the carnival procession leaves Ilford High Road, outside Harrison and Gibson furniture store, at noon.

The colourful floats will make their way to Valentines Park, where there will be more entertainment until 8pm.

For more information visit www.redbridgecarnival.org.uk