Notting Hill Carnival began with an explosion of colour on Sunday morning as revellers met in west London for J'ouvert. The opening event began at 06:00 BST ahead of the children's parade, with the streets awash with bright paint and powder.

Mas bands are known for their extravagant outfits but beyond that - there's so much effort that goes in, all year round. The Mirror spoke to key figures at the long standing Hot Wax Mas Band.

An Indo-Caribbean music genre called chutney is also often played at Notting Hill Carnival, which according to Sophia, some people do not realise is an Indo- Caribbean rhythm. The British Journal of Ethnomusicology describes chutney as a vibrant fusion that blends Indian folk music with Caribbean calypso and soca.