In only its second year, Pollokshaws Carnival is becoming a key feature of Refugee Week in Glasgow. Organised by Pollokshaws Settlement and Integration Network, it was held earlier this summer at the Bengal Street pitch.

On the arrival of the carnival procession, led by the 9th Glasgow Boys Brigade with their samba drums, the event was officially opened by Councillor Stephen Curran.

Then the fun commenced! A host of activities kept everyone busy.

There was a mini Olympic Games; a climbing wall, mountain biking, bubble making, a bouncy castle, stomp rockets, traditional games and, of course, football. Over thirty community organisations had information tables available. DJ Dougie Jackson from REAL Radio compered the event and introduced dancers, singers and a fashion show on stage.

Around 1,000 people attended during the afternoon. Local people also had a chance to have a say in how the Shawbridge Corridor area could look in 10 years’ time as part of a community consultation.

This highlighted the ‘shared future’ aspect of the theme of Refugee Week in Scotland: ‘Different Pasts, Shared Future’. Judging by the happy painted faces at the end of carnival day, Pollokshaws has a bright future ahead.