AVELEY and Ockendon Children’s Centres celebrated Black History Month in October with visits from the Children’s Centre Touring Team.

Siya Twani and Rosemary Ajuwon from TRUST (Thurrock Racial Unity Support Taskgroup) treated the children to a session of learning and fun, including songs, stories, costumes, artfacts and dances from parts of Africa.

There was also traditional Xhosa face painting from South Africa.

Children from local Primary and Pre-Schools also joined the celebration, which promotes learning from and enjoying an ever-growing diversity of cultures and builds positive attitudes to one another.

The Touring Team then moved across Thurrock visiting Tilbury, Purfleet, Stanford-le-Hope and Grays, taking the African vibe across the borough.

Pamela Young, Deputy Coordinator, said: "It is always good to celebrate Diversity and we aim to hold many other events like these in the future.

“We are the only children’s centre to open on Saturdays to give opportunity to working parents and dads to come along to the groups."

The centre also held an Ugly Bug Ball for Halloween.

Around 40 families attended the event.

Area manager for centres, Vanitta Dutta, said "This is part of an ongoing commitment to enhance diversity.

“Working in a multicultural society to deliver services to community means diversity is at the heart of our centres.

“These events give a snapshot of activities and services we deliver on a day to day basis for families and children under five.”

Aveley and Ockendon Children’s Centres are organising ‘Christmas Fun Day’ on December 8.

All children under five get a present from the Santa.

For more details or to book a place contact reception on 01708 863954.