Next generation gears up for Leeds West Indian Carnival

Camilly, who is also joining the parade, said she had been attending carnival since she was born.

“The carnival is a celebration of experiences, past oppression, but also excitement.

“We’ve come a long way from where we were before.

“The carnival is important because it’s a celebration of freedom. It’s something where you can meet family you haven’t seen in a while.”

Ms Joseph said the children had been learning drama, dance and costume making.

“The kids who have taken part in this week are so adorable, they get so stuck in,” she said.

“They want to learn more, but they also want to be the teacher – so they’ve been teaching me some steps that are in the routine.”