The next time you're enjoying a carnival in Norfolk, it might just have a flavour of the Caribbean thanks to carnival arts specialist Pat Howe.

Each year Pat, who lives in Norwich, makes the trip to Tobago to help make costumes and take part in a flamboyant Caribbean carnival.

"I love working with the people out in Tobago and sharing ideas," she said.

"It can be hectic, getting all the costumes made in time for the procession, but the carnival is fun and exciting. Well worth the work," Pat added.

The giant costume is transported from Norwich to Tobago in Pat's suitcase, it is then carefully pressed ready for the big procession.

Pat enjoys the rhythm of a Caribbean carnival.

An explosion of colourful fabric, more than 300m of braiding and sequins went into Pat's costume, though she confesses size matters - "Mine is a relatively small costume," she laughed.

There are carnivals taking place all over Norfolk during the summer months, many of which are now affiliated with the Norfolk Carnival Network.

Lead by Norwich & Norfolk Community Arts, the network aims to bring together carnivals in region that are interested in sharing ideas.

Marcus Patteson is one of the team heading up the organisation: The Carnival Network was started primarily to develop support and resources for local carnivals," he said.

"We were aware that some carnivals were struggling, but also that there was a wealth of experience and expertise out there.

"The network aims to provide an opportunity for carnivals to come together to discuss the difficulties they face and share the successes they've had.

"It is an opportunity to work together to develop resources and make carnival more sustainable and attractive. As practitioners we are also looking for ways to develop the artistic content of carnival and make carnival more exciting.

"We'd also like to acknowledge Awards for All for funding the inaugural mini-conference that lead to the creation of the network and support for the first two meetings," he added.

For more details about the Norfolk Carnival Network contact Marcus Patteson on 07863 18957 or visit their website using the link at the top of this page.

The Phoenix Carnival Collective
A new carnival group for Norfolk focussed on promoting Fair Trade.

There will be hands-on workshops to develop costumes for this year's carnivals, including Cromer, North Walsham and Nottinghill.

Learn new skills and be part of the excitement of carnival. Workshops take place on Sundays during June, July and August, 2004 - 12 to 4pm.

For more information contact Liz Parker on 01603 871067 or email lizparker@onetel.com

Get in touch

If your town or village is hosting a carnival send the details to norfolk@bbc.co.uk - make sure to put the name of your carnival in the subject line of the email.

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