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Yuh never know what to expect with weather in London. When we woke Monday morning (late morning), after 3 days and nights of partying and looked outside, it was looking as dreary as we were feeling. We almost had a mind to call it off and just go back in we bed. Luckily we did go out because by the time we got there, the sun was shining and the weather was sweeeet!

Now the Notting Hill is a relatively small area (cool site for a map of the area http://www.thecarnival.tv/quickmap/Quickmap_page.htm) and up to about 2 million people normally come down over the 2 days, so if yuh not early, getting to the band can sometimes be a problem. Last year, it took us about 2 hours to meet up with the band and our friends, and then it was almost time to go home. Anyway, this year it seemed easier to move through the crowds and we met up with PoisonUK (PUK) in no time.

We arrived just as the Poison band was moving off at 12:00 noon. Once again we Trini posse was behind time. We almost didn't get we PUK cup to drink Johnny and coconut water. Everyting was looking nice, the music was strong and vibrant, and drinks were easy enough to get. There were 3 main sections, Mermaids & Warriors , Iroquois and Sunset in St Tropez plus a fun mas section - Camouflage. Yuh see, unlike in Trinidad, customs agents won't seize yuh army camouflage in Britain. PUK also allow any masqueraders with other costumes to join their "Callaloo" section.

Full of adrenalin, people were getting on scandalous all day! Graced by the presence of the Carib Girls and sexy female masquerades, the foreign press was like paparazzi around the band. True celebrities that were in attendance included the Soca Warriors Stern John and Brent Sancho (we never get tired of bigging up these heros), and also 1Xtra radio personality Alex Jordan. They chipped with the band till late into the twilight hours.

There was food provided by Brian Danclair, but we were more interested in the alcohol and the abundance of Carib to share on the drinks truck. Jugglers, DJ Markee and London's party explosive crew Spicer and Lyndon did the music. Normally once it start getting dark, it's time to start the journey home, either searching for an open tube station or walking miles to yuh car. But this year we stayed quite late and security was doing a good job which helped to make sure everyone (who pay dey money) had a good time. This Notting Hill Carnival was definitely one of the better ones.

UK Jungle Juice signing out!