Loud, proud and buzzing with activity - that was Gloucester Guildhall on October 8 when a celebration of black culture took the venue by storm. Steel bands, gospel music, performance poetry, dazzling jazz dance and breathtaking breakdancing were all on the menu in the day-long event, organised by the Gloucester Youth Housing Association. See our photo gallery of the day
by clicking on the link below
This was an opportunity for the city's African-Caribbean community to get in the party mood - and the atmosphere was infectious, bringing the crowds flocking in. 
There was a real buzz and everyone who came seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves. | | Sue Smith, event co-ordinator |
Event co-ordinator Sue Smith said the aim of the day had been to raise young black people's awareness of their rich history. "This was a youth-led celebration and everyone worked very hard to make it a success. In the end it was magnificent and we were thrilled. "There was a real buzz and everyone who came seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves. "It was the first time we've organised a black history event on that scale. We are already planning next year's for the same date - and we aim to make it even bigger and better!"  | | Thelma Hanson from Gloucester |
Thelma Hanson from Gloucester, was visiting the Guildhall when she discovered the Black History event was taking place. She said: "I thought I'd have a look and see what it was all about. "I've really enjoyed watching some of the events on stage and think it's a great event for the black community". Black History Month began life in the UK in the mid 1980s as a way of opening black teenagers' eyes to their own rich cultural heritage - a heritage that was often not represented in mainstream history. Now it has developed to become a true celebration of black history and has a range of entertaining, engaging and thought-provoking events for everyone from every cultural background. Share YOUR experiences on the BBC The BBC Gloucestershire website wants to feature more stories that chronicle the contribution, impact and history of black people in the county. - Have you a truly multi-cultural/multi-racial family?
- Were you one of the first black people in your area?
- Have you any family photos or film to illustrate your story or memories?
If you would like to share your story with BBC Gloucestershire, please fill in the online form here and you could feature in our ongoing ethnic history project Our Untold Stories.
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Hundreds of people visited the Guildhall for a energy-packed celebration for Black History Month.
