The Tamil community came together for a day of joy and celebration to commemorate the annual Thai Pongal festival.

Groups up and down the country engaged in song and dance before settling down for a traditional holiday feast as they rang in the harvest.

One of the largest celebrations took place in Harrow, which boasts a significant Tamil community.

Suresh Krishna, chairman of the Harrow Tamil Community Association, explained how the festival gives people the chance to learn more about these traditions.

He said: “Tamil is the third most-spoken language in Harrow after English and Gujarati yet not many people will know about this festival.

“It was a chance for all the Tamil societies to come together and perform for Tamils and non-Tamils alike.

“The children and young people who took part in the performance were all very excited to be in the Harrow Council Chamber, where they could proudly display their heritage.”

Now in its eighth year, the Harrow Thai Pongal festival was attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Brent, the leader of Harrow Council and a number of other councillors.

After a colourful dance performance, guests were treated to a Thai Pongal feast, dominated by harvest foods eaten by Tamils such as sweet rice.

To recognise the festival, Prime Minister Theresa May released a video aimed at British Tamils, in which she praised them for their contribution for society.

“Your community punches well above its weight, making a real difference to countless lives right across the country,” she said.

“Let me wish you all a happy Thai Pongal, and an auspicious year ahead.”