Community set for 'wonderful' Diwali celebration

Jagruti Patel (left) and Lorraine Lewis said they hoped Saturday's event would bring the community together

A community will host a "wonderful celebration of hope and togetherness" to mark Diwali, organisers have said.

The Light of Hope event, due to be held at the Elgar Centre in Upton, Northampton, will raise funds for The Lewis Foundation.

The free event will take place between 15:00 and 18:00 BST on Saturday, culminating in a walk around Upton Country Park where residents will carry lanterns.

Event co-organiser Jagruti Patel said: "We wanted to create something that not only celebrates Diwali but also gives people a chance to come together, reflect and share positivity."

The Lewis Foundation provides gifts and support packs to adult cancer patients. The event is supported with funding from Upton Parish Council.

Ms Patel, an Upton resident, said the walking would be a "very moving moment".

The community event will also offer activities for all ages, including arts and crafts, lantern making, henna tattoos and an opportunity to join in with traditional Indian dancing.

Diwali is a major five-day festival celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world which celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

Lorraine Lewis, CEO and co-founder of The Lewis Foundation, said: "This community event will be a wonderful celebration of hope and togetherness.

"We are so grateful to the residents of Upton for bringing people together in such a special way, while also helping us raise vital funds to provide comforting gift packs for adults undergoing cancer treatment in hospital."