Events are being held in Watford next week to honour the Caribbean community’s contributions to the UK.

Celebrations recognise the Windrush generation coming to the UK after the British government called on members of the commonwealth to support the country with the post-second World War reconstruction efforts.

It has been 75 years since the HMT Empire Windrush brought 492 people from the Caribbean to the UK.

Since 2018, June 22 has been officially recognised as Windrush Day, the day the ship first arrived in the UK.

During the 1940s–1970s, an estimated half a million people from the Caribbean journeyed to the UK.

Watford's first event is being held by One Vision in Stanborough Park Church, on Tuesday, June 20 from 5.30pm to 7pm.

 

Anyone can attend the free event where the key note speaker will be Cliff Walker, BEM, MBE who served 25 years in the Royal Air Force.

On leaving the service he continued to work for the Ministry of Defence until his retirement.

Watford Mayor Peter Taylor will be raising the commemorative flag outside the Town Hall at 10am on Windrush Day on Thursday, June 22.

Mr Taylor said: “Watford is fortunate to be home to an incredible community of individuals from the Windrush generation, whose contributions have enriched our town.

“I consider it a privilege to have had the opportunity to listen to the captivating life stories of those who responded to our call for assistance in the 1950s and chose to establish their roots in Watford.

“Our British Caribbean community has played a big part in shaping Watford into the vibrant and thriving town it is today.”

The council will also host a lunch event at Watford Museum from 12pm to 3pm organised by Caring Sharing Friends and Community Game Changers.

Activities will be filled with food, soul-stirring music and choir performances.

The mayor will give a fascinating overview of Watford’s diverse history, highlighting our rich heritage.

Furthermore, Hertfordshire’s Archive and Local Studies will deliver a talk on researching family history, offering attendees the opportunity to delve into their ancestral roots.