Creative groups from across Norwich caught carnival fever as they paraded in Europe's largest one-day carnival.

Members of the Hewett School, the Phoenix Group in Mile Cross and the Hi Jacks Stilt Walking group displayed their skills in the Carnival Crossroads Eastbound project, held in Luton.

Pax Nindi, creative director for the carnival, said: 'This project has made a major contribution to carnival and cultural excellence in the UK.

'It has been a unique opportunity for local people from across the East of England, whatever their age or background, to participate in an Olympic celebration with a lasting legacy.'

The carnival was put together by 100 people across Norwich, working alongside others from Ipswich, Southend-on-Sea, Cambridge and Luton.

It aimed to bring together different community groups, of mixed ages and interests, to learn new skills and take part in dance, music and costume making.

They learnt from famous Brazilian carnival artist, Milton Cunha, who put together the float for the carnival, tying together the heritage of all five regions.

Helen Lax, regional director of arts council England, east, said: 'The results of all the hard work that has gone into this extraordinary project made for a spectacular celebration of culture.'

A workshop artist for the event, Helen Davenport, said: 'People get skills from carnival in areas they maybe thought they never had.

'This boosts their self esteem and confidence, as well as being educated about other cultures, legends, myths and religions, networking and making new friends across the world as well as their local community.'

The event was funded by Legacy Trust UK, a group set up to help ensure the 2012 London Olympic Games leave a lasting cultural legacy, as well as Arts Council England.

Is your community group involved in a regional or national event? Email rosa.mcmahon@archant.co.uk