Police officers dancing along with revellers has become a popular tradition of Notting Hill Carnival in the last four decades.

But this year a superintendent has stepped in to warn her constables not to get distracted by the enticingly rhythmic Caribbean music, as it could take their focus away from preventing crowd crushes.

Around one million people will descend on the capital this bank holiday weekend to celebrate Europe's largest street event with gregarious costumes, sizzling street food and famous guests.

And more than 12,000 police officers will be on hand to make sure the packed procession of performers and revelers parades smoothly through West London.

This year they have been reminded to dedicate themselves to monitoring the crowds and ensuring people are kept safe, and not allow themselves to be diverted by the sometimes overwhelming music booming out from 36 sound system sites.