Unity in Diversity is the theme of a two-day festival taking place next weekend in Borehamwood.

The Diversity Festival, organised by Elstree and Borehamwood Unity Network, is a family-friendly event showcasing a wide range of activities, including local artisans, live music, a fashion show, an interactive drumming workshop and laughter therapy session.

Discussions will also be taking place on modern day slavery and racism in sport.

The event, which coincides with the conclusion of Black History Month, will take place at Fairway Hall in Brook Close from 10am until 10pm on Saturday October 30 and 10am until 6pm on Sunday October 31.

The festival will be opened on Saturday by the mayor of Hertsmere, Cllr Anne Swerling. This will be followed by a welcome breakfast, an interactive drumming session from JooDoo Drums and live performances from singer Levi Positive and Entertainers Steel Band.

The following day, the mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood, Cllr Farida Turner will officially open the second day of the event, before a bring and share international lunch at midday where visitors are asked to bring their own dish to gain free entry.

The weekend will round off with a laughing therapy session and music from cartoon pop band Soul Jump.

The festival was first held in 2018 during Borehamwood and Elstree town councillor Victor Eni's mayoral year.

Cllr Eni, who also serves as a Hertsmere borough councillor, is from Nigeria and his wife, Martine, is from France.

Cllr Eni said: "We want to welcome a complete cross-section of our local population. Come join us and play your part in achieving our aim of unity in diversity."

A community grant of £3,000 has helped fund next weekend's event along with £850 from the council's ward improvement scheme.

Councillors in Hertsmere are allocated £500 to support projects of their choice in their wards.

Borough councillor Meenal Sachdev, who has responsibilities in community and culture, added: "It is a great opportunity for everyone to come together and have fun, while celebrating Hertsmere as an inclusive place to live, work and visit."

Tickets are £5 per day and free on Sunday to anyone bringing a dish. They are available to buy in advance at tinyurl.com/diversityfest or on the door.

For more information about the festival go to interculturalbe@gmail.com or call 07852 967160.