Don’t stop Notting Hill carnival – we should celebrate it | Letters

There’s much to celebrate in the carnival, despite its challenges, argues former Met policeman Mick Free. Plus memories from long-time carnival-goer Zoe Baker

As a retired Metropolitan police officer and former resident of Notting Hill, I agree with Leroy Logan that there should be a revised approach to planning and policing for the carnival (Millions loved the Notting Hill carnival but we need less crime. As an ex-cop, I have ideas to make it better, 27 August).

Despite its challenges and the short-term negative impact for some local residents and businesses, there is largely a sense of pride in the community of hosting Europe’s largest street party. It also ensures Notting Hill is globally known. The high numbers of tourists visiting year-round, and contributing to the local economy, no doubt come largely due to the carnival connection. The carnival is not an easy event to police and manage. But as President John F Kennedy once said: “We choose to [do] things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” Let’s not give up on the carnival. There is much to celebrate and improve.
Mick Free
Slad, Gloucestershire

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