Its founders were
Arthur France, then a
Leeds University student from
Nevis, who is longstanding Chairman; Ian Charles, who was still Co-ordinator in 2008; and
Gertrude Paul, a teacher. Arthur France proposed what would be the first Caribbean-style outdoor carnival organized by people of Caribbean origin in Europe. As the local Caribbean association was not forthcoming, he formed his own committee, and Ian Charles's home became a factory for costumes. Five contestants entered the first Carnival Queen Show, won by Vicky Seal as the Sun Goddess. They joined bands and dancers in a procession from Potternewton Park to
Leeds Town Hall, where a steel band competition was followed by a dance. About 1,000 people attended. The Leeds performers were invited to participate in the
Notting Hill Carnival later the same year. The decade saw increased professionalism by the now very experienced Carnival Committee and the introduction of lorries to carry bands. 1997 was the 30th anniversary and Arthur France received the
MBE for his work with the local community. 2007 was the 40th anniversary, with crowds of 100,000 for the first time. It was also the 25th anniversary of the Leeds West Indian Centre, and the bicentenary of the British
abolition of transatlantic slavery. Ian Charles also received the MBE. It returned in 2022. ==Gallery==