Lady Somerset Road street festival helps bring neighbours together – whatever the weather...

Published: September 15, 2011
by DAN CARRIER

A 20-FOOT python and a ska band, a chalk race track and a sit-down lunch for more than 100 people, a dog show and a fire truck – it could only be the Lady Somerset Road street party.

Sandwiched in between the odd tropical downpour, the sun shone on the much-loved end-of-summer fixture in the northern end of Kentish Town which encourages neighbours to get to know each other.

As well as the meal for all, those attending were treated to a bake-off featuring a table groaning with home-made cakes, a raffle hosted by National Portrait Gallery chief Sandy Nairne, a film festival showcasing movies made by residents and what has become a street tradition – Popeye cartoons and Laurel and Hardy shows. 

Animals from exotic creature company Zoofari and a dog show helped keep youngsters entertained.