A LIVELY celebration of black history and culture is being held in Dorchester.

The South West Dorset Multicultural Network (SWDMCN) will be holding its annual Black History Month event at the Corn Exchange on Saturday, October 5 from 6pm until 10.30pm.

Everyone is welcome at the free, family-friendly event, including children.

Black History Month is held across the UK every October to celebrate the significant contributions black people have made - and continue to make - to British culture.

The network has been holding a celebration event during Black History Month for several years, and people from across Dorset travel to the county town to take part.

Mona Elkotory, chairman of the SWDMCN, said: "Black History Month events are a fantastic opportunity for local people from all backgrounds to come together and celebrate diversity, have a good dance and enjoy delicious food. I think it’s incredibly important to celebrate multiculturalism locally."

Dave Corbin, treasurer of the SWMCN said: "This is a real celebration of the black and Asian contribution to society – it is an amazing opportunity for people of all ages to eat, talk and dance together. The atmosphere is truly friendly and the night has become a diary fixture that many look forward to all year."

This year’s speaker John Stockley will talk about growing up as the son of a black GI in Dorset. Guests will also be treated to a music set from Femi Oriogun-Williams and a special mix from local DJ Chiman 101.

Delicious West African and Caribbean food will be on sale at £7 per person. Organisers say this often sells out quickly, so guests are advised to arrive in plenty of time to avoid missing out.

The South West Dorset Multicultural Network is a registered charity, which aims to promote social inclusion for people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds. It also works to bring communities together and combat racism by celebrating the cultural diversity of people living in west Dorset.

For further information about the event, or to find out more about becoming a member of the South West Dorset Multicultural Network or to join the mailing list, email SWDMN@Outlook.com.

For information about Black History Month visit www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk