Exotic dancers, vibrant music and the smell of Caribbean food have livened up London as Europe's biggest street festival hit the capital.

Thousands of people cheered Notting Hill Carnival's colourful procession through the sunny streets to the beat of steel drums and sound systems.

Lines of traditional floats and brightly costumed dancers paraded along the three-and-a-half mile route during the event which marks the carnival's 48th year.

The party atmosphere saw face-painted children and families dancing on the side-lines and even police officers showed off their moves in front of the crowds.

Sunday is the carnival's family day and children and young people travelled on many of the floats from schools, community groups and sports clubs which were decorated with flags, flowers, feathers and jewels.

The celebrations continue an unforgettable summer for London, coming between the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Press Association, photo by agogo