BIG crowds are expected as usual at Hayes Carnival on Saturday, July 12.

The parade will start at 12.30pm in Pump Lane, making its way through the streets to Barra Hall Park for the start of the main event at 1.30.

This year’s procession features a samba band, stilt walkers, giant puppets and carnival costumes as seen at Notting Hill Carnival, created by Flamingo Arts and worn by members of the Hayes community.

The main stage will be headlined by Los Pacaminos, a classic Tex Mex band featuring Paul Young with support from lively covers band the Buzz Lightweights and the Hayes Community Choir, which features more than 100 local schoolchildren.

The children’s zone will include a traditional Punch and Judy show with a Bollywood twist. The Eco-Zone returns this year with its usual mix of solar-powered music and rocket stove cakes, and the Dell area includes arts and crafts and an acoustic music stage.

Carnival-goers will also enjoy a food court, funfair, dance arena, sports activities, traditional community stalls and much more.

For a map of the parade route and more information, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/hayescarnival