Slideshow and video: Leeds West Indian Carnival

Thousands lined the streets of Chapeltown and Harehills as the blitz of colour, noise and passion that was the 43rd Leeds West Indian Carnival got under way. It featured about 2,000 costumed dancers, 35 Mas or Masquerade bands, 22 floats and two steel bands. Potternewton Park was packed with smoke-filled stalls selling everything from traditional Caribbean food such as jerk chicken to record stalls and toys. Good weather led to a bumper turnout as people listened to the live music into the evening. The event was the first West Indian Carnival in Europe when it first set up in 1967. One of the revellers, 27-year-old Patricia Ganbon, said: "I've had a great time - the carnival queen looked great. There's so much colour and music, it's like the whole community's swaying to the same beat." And another carnival-goer, Paula Winston, added: "The weather's been lovely, crowds have lined the streets, everyone's having a good time. What more can you want?" You can add your pictures to the Guardian Leeds Flickr group. Did you go to the carnival? Post your comments in the section below.