AN event celebrating the multicultural nature of Darlington is being planned.

Celebrating Diversity in Darlington, on July 29, is being organised by the Racial Equality Council.

The council plans to hold workshops in local schools, backed by a programme of performances featuring African, Asian and the Caribbean culture.

The event will build on the success of similar ventures co-ordinated by the REC in the last two years. Helen Attewell, development officer for Darlington and Durham Racial Equality Council, said: "These have been relatively low key affairs which may have had a limited impact on local perceptions of Darlington as a multi-cultural town. We want to make the 2001 celebration bigger and better."

The REC is seeking sponsorship from Northern Arts and Darlington Borough Council.

To support the event telephone (01325) 283900.