African Caribbean society marks 40 years with gala

Richard Blackwood will host Maca's 40th anniversary gala in July

A Kent-based community group is to celebrate its 40th anniversary with a charity gala.

Medway African & Caribbean Association (Maca), which launched in 1984, promotes diversity through its education and cultural programmes and community outreach.

The gala, to be held in July in Rochester, Kent, will be hosted by presenter and actor Richard Blackwood.

A Maca spokesperson said they had "so much to be proud of, from very humble beginnings".

The gala, on 20 July, will see a showcase of performances by young people depicting the evolution of African dance and hip hop over the past 40 years.

There will also be a display of textiles that "narrates the intertwined stories of Africa and the Caribbean".

Carol Stewart, chairperson of Maca, said: “We have so much to be proud of over the past 40 years, and we have so much more to do.

"This gala is not just a celebration of our past but a beacon of hope and unity for our community.

"It promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with entertainment to honour the legacy and future of the African and Caribbean communities across Kent and Medway."