A series of talks, films, exhibitions and other art events is celebrating the borough's rich ethnic heritage as part of October's Black History Month.

Running throughout the whole of the month, the event will be marked in Croydon with a range of shows celebrating the contribution made by black and Asian communities.

A hip-hop theatre production, called Life of a B'Boy, and comedy nights are among the events taking place in and around the Clocktower throughout October.

Visitors to the new Croydon Museum can also unearth stories of prominent black role models in Croydon, such as Sislin Fay Allen.

Sislin was an inspiration for many when she became the Metropolitan Police Service's first black female officer, based at Croydon in the late 1960s.

The mum-of-two endured prejudices from her own community for joining the police force, as well as stares from members of the public on her first days in uniform.

Her appointment as the Met's first black female police officer even prompted hate mail, but her commitment to the job won her much praise. Her achievements feature in black history tours of London.

Councillor Steve Hollands, cabinet member for culture and sport, said: "Black History Month provides us with an excellent opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contribution made by some of the many cultures that make up Croydon's diverse community."

In addition, a family quiz testing people's knowledge of black authors, musicians, inventors, history and geography will be taking place at every Croydon library throughout October, with prizes to be won.

The month culminates in an event at the Croydon Clocktower on October 28 between 1pm and 5pm, where poetry, drama, dance, music and talks celebrates black history in the community.

For details about events featured, contact the Croydon Clocktower on 020 8253 1030.