CHILDREN of all ages came out in their numbers to participate in the San Fernando Kiddies Carnival yesterday.

The main hubs of activity were Cipero Street and Skinner Park, which was the main judging point.

The children, all dressed in fancy, colourful costumes, did not seem to mind the usual Carnival heat, as they danced to soca tunes from various artistes.

Over 20 children's bands participated in the parade, separated into two categories—School and Non-School.

Not only schools located in the city participated: some came from as far as Siparia and Claxton Bay.

The first band to cross the stage at Skinner Park around 1 p.m. was Carny Low and Associates' portrayal, Sweet Thing.

Some of the bands participating in the School category were Renaissance Preparatory School, with Sweet For So; Mon Repos Roman Catholic Primary School, with Sailing Through; La Divina Pastora RC, with D Elements; Claxton Bay Anglican Pre-School, with Ship Wreck; and Wee Ones Child Centre's portrayal, African Safari—Here We Come.

In the Non-Schools category, some of the bands were Irma and Friends, with its portrayal of Faith with Flowers; Sword and Associates, D Four Elements, K and N Associates, Rain Dancers; Carivog Kids' Club, Anything Goes; Owen Hinds and Friends, From the Sea They Came; Nation People, Comanche Uprising; and Tang's Unique Gems, Cannot Stop The Music.

Vendors who lined Coffee and High Streets said they were disappointed in sales, as the crowd stuck to Cipero Street and Skinner Park.

They said they are hoping to increase sales today and tomorrow during the Parade of the Bands.

—additional reporting

by Trevor Watson