Rudolph Walker loves how the Notting Hill Carnival unites "people from all walks of life".
The ‘EastEnders’ actor – who has played Patrick Trueman on the BBC soap for the past 18 years – attends the annual event every year after appearing at the very first one back in 1966, and he has heaped praise on the way the gathering brings people together.
He told ITV News: "I think what is so important, what brings in the crowd, yes it’s the atmosphere.
"But so many people from all walks of life, all different creed, colour, race, can get together for two days and jump, have fun, listen to good music, hug each other, smile. This is a recipe for togetherness."
The 79-year-old star almost missed his interview at the carnival – which is one of the world’s largest street festivals – because he was stopped for autographs as he pushed through the crowds.
He added: "I eventually got here. It was so crowded getting along Ladbroke Grove. Every second you walk someone wants an autograph.
"It’s been quite something. It’s quite a journey. And of course the sun shining is helping tremendously."
Rudolph has previously admitted his performance as Patrick has been inspired by a number of his own childhood experiences, such as seeing someone once put money under their hat.
He said: "I enjoy him. I draw from the fact he’s a really typical Trinidadian from way back. I draw on my uncles and the people I work with over the years and I’ve seen over the years and I’ve grown up with over the years.
"The money in his hat and little things like that. I love the character."
Rudolph Walker: Notting Hill Carnival is recipe for togetherness
