Good music, good food and good vibes are to be enjoyed this weekend at a free celebration of Black History Month.

Acclaimed musicians Cheikh Diop and Femi Oriogun-Williams will play at the bash, which is being held at Dorchester's Corn Exchange on Saturday October 6, from 6pm to 10pm.

The family-friendly event will also feature a children's treasure hunt, with delicious Caribbean, Indian and Arabic food being served.

The event is being organised by the South West Dorset Multicultural Network (SWDMN) and Dorset Healthcare.

Mona Elkotory, chairman of SWDMN said: "It's important to emphasise the contribution of people from black and minority ethnicity backgrounds in the area - you don't need to look far to see the contribution - for example, the number of staff at Dorchester hospital from minority ethnicities.

"With this event we're sending out the message that you don't have to be alone - don't be worried - it doesn't matter who you are, how old you are, whether you're a man or a woman - come and be part of it."

This year the bash is a triple celebration - as well as marking Black History Month, the event will commemorate the 70th anniversary of HMS Windrush arriving into Britain, with first and second generation speakers giving inspirational talks.

It is also the 70th anniversary of the NHS, and there will be a talk from Patricia Miller, chief executive officer of Dorset County Hospital.

She said: “This event is to recognise the positive contribution black and ethnic communities make to UK society and culture, and this year celebrates the 70th anniversary of the NHS.

"For me it’s particularly pertinent because I am a second-generation Windrush immigrant leading an NHS organisation.

"The NHS wouldn’t be what it is if it didn’t attract the workforce from overseas.”

David Corbin, equality and diversity manager at Dorset Healthcare, said: “The annual reggae night celebrates Black History Month in its own unique and well-loved style, with food, music and dancing.

"It’s a real opportunity for all communities to come together and share in the celebration.”

For more information contact SWDMN@outlook.com