Steel pans, Samba, African drumming, colourful costumes and a huge carnival puppet delighted crowds at the first ever Hackney Kids’ Carnival in Dalston Square.

More than 160 pupils took part in workshops for two months leading up to the council-run event on Sunday, which saw hundreds of people turn out.

Prizes were given out on the day. Year 4 kids from Colvestone picked up best dance, Year 6 students from Hoxton Garden won best cultural representation, Year 5 and 6 pupils from Randal Cremer won best music and another class from the same school were awarded best carnival designs. Finally, Year 5 children from Southwold had the most environmentally friendly entry for their costumes and performance.

Tione Chance, 14, of Dalston, said: “It’s good to see all the children being able to express themselves and show people what they are capable of.”

Randal Cremer head Jo Riley even donned her own costume. She said: “It’s what Hackney and Randal Cremer is all about, celebrating diversity.”