A series of events will be taking place across Croydon over the next few weeks to celebrate Black History Month.

The programme of lectures, performances and workshops will look into black history and culture, inspirational people from Croydon’s black community and black life in Croydon as it is now and how it is hope it will be in the future.

Highlights over the course of the month include a talk on The Roots of Black Music, a documentary about legendary singer Billy Paul, the UK premier of Jennie Baptiste’s latest film, Accompong Maroons, and MOBO award-winner and Mercury Music Prize nominee Sway.

Here's a quick look at what to look out for this week:

- The Black Presence in Britain before 1948, Stanley Halls, South Norwood, October 9, 7pm.

Why did 19th century English historians claim that Black people built Stonehenge? Were Black people here in Roman times? Noted historian Robin Walker throws light on some rarely explored areas of the past.

- Rastamouse Roots Rock Workshop, Ashburton Library, October 9, 4pm.

Meet Michael De Souza, author of Rastamouse books featuring the cool, crime-bustin' mouse. Have a go at making your own Rastamouse character. For children aged 7 to 11.

- Caribbean Music Trail, Stanley Halls, South Norwood, October 10, 2pm.

Explore Caribbean music and its contribution and influence on the spiritual, cultural, social and political development of Caribbean people and the region as a whole.

- A Century of Black Journalism in Britain, Clocktower Activities Room, Croydon Clocktower, October 15, 7pm.

Is the Black Media still relevant in our multi-cultural country? Explore this and more in this interactive session hosted by Lionel Morrison and Adeline Iziren.

Black History Month, October 6 to 29, various venues and prices. Visit croydon-blackhistory.co.uk.