Garvin Nicholas, The High Commissioner, getting into the party mood

Food, drink and art from the Caribbean islands all on offer as Kilburn gets carnival fever.

Carnival dancers, mojitos and sunshine smiles marked the launch of a cultural event celebrating the best of Trinidad and Tobago at the Tricycle Theatre.

Delicious bites were also on offer as distinguished guests from the Caribbean joined friends and colleagues from the UK in marking the start of the Trinidad and Tobago Cultural Village on Wednesday.

The village is part of a four week drive by the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London to raise the profile of the islands by displaying the best in music, song, dance, food and drink.

During its time in the theatre, the village will host dozens of events which allow people to get a small taste of the good life on offer in Trinidad and Tobago for free in London.

Events include dance classes, drama workshops, drum lessons as well as concerts and performances from the islands’ top entertainers.

His Excellency Garvin Nicholas, High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, was among those marvelling in the atmosphere at the event.

Mr Nicholas said: “The aim of the Village is to raise the profile of and provide some more information about Trinidad and Tobago to UK nationals and visitors to London during this time.

“For too long Trinidad and Tobago has been the best kept secret of the Caribbean region and it is time that that changes.

“We offer traditional sand and sea tourism with boutique hotels. In addition, our eco-tourism product is the most diverse in the region.

“This includes un-spoilt forests, most diverse flora and fauna per square mile than anywhere in South America, leather back turtle nesting, bird sanctuaries and a pitch lake. We offer spectacular diving and sailing.

“We have the most diverse population in the region, leading to an unmatched cultural melting pot which impacts our amazing cuisine.”

As part of the village, there will be a number of different food booths offering tempting bites from the islands including shark, curry, sada roti, soups and a Creole kitchen.

The Trinidad and Tobago Cultural Village will run at the tricycle Theatre in Kilburn High Road every day until August 25.

Events are free but tickets must be booked. For further details visit www.trinbagovillage.com or www.tricycle.co.uk or click on the links above.