Story by Carl Rose
On Saturday 20th November 2004, Spital Hill was illuminated as Ellesmere Green played host to Burngreave’s first Carnival of Lights.
Organised by Panni Poh Yoke Loh of Green City Action, the carnival reflects the seasonal celebrations of many cultures at this time of year.
The Lord Mayor switched on the lights as a procession of brightly-dressed carnival goers marched down Petre Street and headed for the green. Soca music provided by DJ Mink kept the procession dancing as a growing crowd looked on. Neon dancers and fire breathers from Green Top Circus lit up the streets.
Making a brief appearance, a giant silver robot stomped onto the green and was quickly mobbed by a wave of young children, all eager to shake the robot’s hand.
Shortly after, an Indian dancer mesmerised the crowd with her hypnotic movements. This was followed by breakdancing and Arabic candle dances. Inside the carnival tent many busy stalls could be seen, while creative workshops kept the children busy making festive candles and decorations.
The event was played out to the end by a backdrop of reggae and R’n’B. The festive locals eventually headed for home after enjoying a chilly but entertaining evening.