If ever you need an expert in samba drumming, Carlos dos Santos Fernandes is the man to speak to.

Even though he was offered a place to teach the tambourin - a small drum-type instrument - at no fewer than five top samba schools, he chose to settle in Colchester.

In fact he is so well known in his home town of Rio de Janiero - and across Brazil - he uses just his nickname Carlito.

Along with his wife Katherine, he now runs weekly workshops for his Boudica Bloco -a type of samba school - at the Arena on Napier Road, Colchester.

A group of around 30 people meet regularly to bang their drums in true Brazilian carnival spirit and generally have some fun.

"I started playing samba when I was about 14 because it was part of our culture," said Carlos.

"I used to go and hang out with my friends but I wasn't particularly interested at that time.

"Then I saw how it involves the whole community and it brings people together."

  • Anyone interested in joining the group can contact Katherine on 07939 203404 or email boudicasamba@hotmail.co.uk. Alternatively visit their website below