Bringing together different cultures and communities helped to create a real sense of carnival celebration in Douglas last weekend.

The community language initiative Cafe Lingo held its annual SpringFest in Douglas on Saturday at the Promenade Methodist Church and welcomed people and representatives from many of the different communities that call the island home.

The event created a colourful, carnival atmosphere, with flags and vibrant artwork mixing with the aroma of various food stalls featuring dishes from across the world, including delicacies from Poland, Spain, the Ukraine and Britain, as well as generous helpings of Manx bonnag.

Among the many acts featured were a team of young Polish folk dancers and a group of Polish classical singers, as well as displays from the local traditional folk group Perree Bane.

Two belly dancers performed an exotic show of Eastern dance and the island’s Rock Vannin choir had people singing along with their versions of Beatles songs.

Local musician Dave McLean also joined in, playing a set of New Orleans-style blues and jazz songs on the piano.

Organiser Karen Norton, from Cafe Lingo, said that the event brought out the best in the local community.

’SpringFest was a fantastic event this year,’ said Karen.

’It exceeded all of our expectations in terms of audience figures and entertainment. The place was heaving from the moment we opened the doors and there was a wonderful sense of community throughout the whole day.

’There were all sorts of people there. Some were groups who use Cafe Lingo, but most people were just curious to find out what we are all about and what was going on.

’We think it did create an atmosphere much like a carnival, even though it was indoors in the middle of February on a wet day in the Isle of Man.

’It was a day all about building communities and teaching about other cultures and also sharing about what we have here on the island with others.

’And thanks to the generosity of those who attended, we managed to raise £700, which will be split between the Cafe Lingo running costs and Rebecca House.’