Carnival police operation launches

Chief Inspector Jo Edwards said: "The Met's message is a clear and simple one - come to the carnival to have fun and enjoy this wonderful cultural experience, but don't come to cause trouble.

"More than a million visitors went to the carnival last year, but there was no serious disorder, and there were no firearms incidents for the third year in a row.

"We work with the community and partners carefully planning throughout the year, so there are no surprises for anyone.

"Operation Razorback is a highly sophisticated and detailed operation aimed at ensuring those who set out with the sole intention of causing trouble at the carnival will not succeed.

"Our officers working both prior to and during the event are professional and multi-skilled, and many have years of experience policing the event.

"While the carnival is open to all, we would advise dog owners to leave their animals at home - dogs and carnival do not mix, it's not fair on the dogs or carnival goers.

"So come to the carnival and enjoy everything it has to offer, but we'd like to see visitors and officers go home safe and sound."

Ancil Barclay, director of Notting Hill Carnival Ltd, added: "We are pleased to be working closely with the police to make sure this year's carnival is safer than ever.

"The message is very clear - carnival is a fun day out and a fantastic tradition, but any violence or antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated."

The Met will be using websites YouTube and Twitter to update carnival-goers for the next four weeks.