Caribbean delights in Poplar

Locals experienced a genuine taste of the Caribbean whilst sipping on tropical fruit punches, indulging in Caribbean cuisine, and listening to the sweet sounds of calypso and reggae. 
 
Live entertainment was also in abundance with: Ale Douvan’s African drummers, Caribbean poetry, written and performed by youth worker Sylvester Mittee, and young local lyricists pleased the crowd with their original rhymes during a MC challenge.
 
The Poplar Boys and Girls Club, the East India and Lansbury Safer Neighbourhood Team, Poplar Harca Housing Association, and Tower Hamlets LAP 7 teamed-up to create the evening of entertainment to help improve community cohesion and build stronger relationships between the Safer Neighbourhood Teams and local people.

Rufus Clarke, Poplar HARCA Youth work manager, said:
"Poplar HARCA and Poplar Boys’ and Girls’ club together held this event to raise awareness of different cultures and generations living together in Poplar, and to promote local amenities. African drumming, art and craft, limbo and poetry brought people of all ages together and we wish to continue this success by holding more culture nights in the future.”

 
Alna Hudlin, Police Community Safety Officer, East India and Lansbury Safer Neighbourhood Team shared her enthusiasm about the successful evening. She said:  “It’s been great seeing everyone enjoying themselves. It goes to show community policing isn’t just about laying down the law it’s also about getting to know local people and having fun with them.” 
 
Helen Redd, Neighbourhood manager,Tower Hamlets LAP 7, added:  “It’s been an excellent event. Residents and local organisations have come together to show how people of different cultures and ages can work and achieve together.”