2m get ready for Carnival

More than two million people are expected to attend the 43rd Notting Hill Carnival this weekend.

Despite tight security for the event, organisers are promising it will be bigger and better than ever.

Seventy performers, including mass bands, mobile DJs and 16 steel bands, will take part in the procession along the 3.5-mile route.

There will be more than 50,000 participants, with 15,000 costumes, 150,000 feather plumes, 30 million sequins and 100 litres of body paint.

The theme of this year's carnival - Europe's biggest street festival and second in size only to the Rio carnival - is Set All Free, marking the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in England while acknowledging that some forms continue today.

Professor Chris Mullard, chairman of London Notting Hill Carnival, said: "Carnival 2007 promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with a wonderful series of events showcasing the multicultural splendour of the capital.

"It is important that communities in London unite and show the talent and the passion that thrives within."

London Mayor Ken Livingstone added: "I am very pleased to be backing Carnival again, particularly in the year that we are marking the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in England."

The final build-up begins on Friday with the climax of the London Calypso Tent performances, hosted by the Association of British Calypsonians, at the Yaa Asantewaa Arts and Community Centre in Westbourne Green.

On Saturday, Hyde Park will host a giant steel band competition, the National Panorama Championship.

Nine of Britain's top bands, comprising up to 75 musicians, will compete for the title of National Champions of Steel.

Sunday is Children's Day, while the main parade and party will be held on Bank Holiday Monday.

This year's Carnival charity is the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust, which will use the event to raise awareness and encourage more black and mixed-race people to sign up to the UK Bone Marrow Transplant register.