CREDITON area’s diverse communities will be celebrated at the 5th Crediton Diversity Festival in Crediton Town Square from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, September 9.

It will include live entertainment, talks, information and advice stalls and much more such as Indian dancing, Ukrainian singers, henna tattoos and goody bags.

Everyone is invited to attend as the event is family-friendly.

The Festival will include groups from across the wide diverse community, and admission is free-of-charge.

Alan Quick, who started the first festival and has been involved since, said that this year’s Festival aims to showcase the town and area as a welcoming place for all.

Alan said: “There has been a real buzz at our previous festivals.

“The dancers were spectacular and the musicians proved to be really popular as people chatted and networked. They were vibrant, informative, and exciting events and this year’s festival promises to be the same.”

Alan said that reports of racist incidents and hate crimes in Crediton were the inspiration behind the first Crediton Diversity Festival, which was staged in November 2018.

Alan added: “Each individual is unique regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs or other difference.

“By valuing diversity we recognise the differences between people and acknowledge that these differences are a valued asset. Crediton is a welcoming place for all and there is no place here for racism or hate of any kind.

“We look forward to seeing you on September 9.”

The Festival is being supported by Crediton Town Council, the Crediton Courier, Crediton Youth Club, Crediton Arts Centre, Crediton Tesco, Crediton Morrisons and Devon County Council.