Colourful carnival costumes were on display at Luton airport last week during its first community celebration event.
Singers and dancers performed during an evening designed to showcase artistic talent from the area and celebrate the airport's involvement with the community over the past year.
Representatives from more than 50 community organisations were there alongside airport staff.
Performers included dance group Rampage, the Phoenix Players, the Lorenzi String Quartet and magician Terry Locke.
Speakers included Simon Kitchener, the principal of Luton Sixth Form College, and Lloyd Conaway, director of the Bedfordshire County Sports Partnership.
Simon Earles, the airport's general manager for planning and corporate social responsibility, said: "This event represents 12 months of community engagement for us and our partners.
"It is fantastic to see so many people with the common goal of making a positive contribution to the community here tonight.
"It is this level of support and commitment from employees, stakeholders and community groups that has made 2008 so successful."
Managing director Glyn Jones added: "We are immensely proud of the progress that was made in 2008 and we will do even more in 2009."
The airport's community engagement strategy, which was launched last year, sets out how it plans to help improve the environment and the economy in Luton between now and 2012.
This year it plans to increase recycling by five per cent, set up a £50,000 community fund and provide more training for staff.
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Prices start from just £64 for a room with up to 15 days' parking at Luton Airparks.
This price is correct for bookings searched on February 3, 2009. Prices are subject to change and availability. Book your Luton airport hotel in advance with Holiday Extras for the best prices and availability.