Sir Lenny Henry joins LESLA Windrush Legacy Gala for a memorable celebration of community and heritage

Long Eaton’s Windrush heritage took centre stage on Saturday 17th October as LESLA ALLIANCE hosted its fourth annual Windrush Legacy Gala at the Village Hotel, Chilwell, with special guest Sir Lenny Henry CBE.

The event marked a significant milestone for the Long Eaton-based organisation, which achieved registered charity status in February 2026. The Gala brought together 160 guests, including Windrush elders, descendants, community leaders and supporters, to celebrate the lasting contributions of the Windrush Generation and those continuing to make a difference today.

Now in its fourth year, the Gala has become an important occasion in the local calendar, combining celebration, education, remembrance and recognition.

An Evening with Sir Lenny Henry
A highlight of the evening was a special fireside conversation with Sir Lenny Henry CBE, who entertained guests with his trademark humour, personal stories and reflections on his childhood, career, heritage and charitable work.

The conversation moved between laughter and poignant moments, exploring the experiences of the Windrush Generation, the importance of family and community, and the responsibility we all share in preserving their legacy.

Sir Lenny also offered encouragement and advice to LESLA as it develops its work as a newly registered charity, including ideas for future community fundraising and cultural events.

Reflecting on the evening, Fiona Daniel, Strategic Lead of LESLA ALLIANCE, said: “It was an extraordinary evening. Sir Lenny brought such warmth, humour and inspiration, but at its heart, the Gala was about honouring our Windrush Generation and celebrating the community they helped build. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.”

Honouring the Windrush Generation and Community Achievement
At the heart of the Gala was an awards ceremony recognising individuals whose lives and service have helped shape the community.

Awards honoured Windrush elders who are still with us, celebrating their lifetime of contribution, wisdom and resilience, alongside a posthumous tribute to a Windrush community icon whose legacy continues to inspire.

Recognition was also given to Windrush descendants for their outstanding services to health and social care, acknowledging the important contribution successive generations continue to make.

Further awards celebrated exceptional voluntary service, fundraising and commitment to the wider community. A particularly poignant moment was the Lifetime Achievement Award, with Major General Karl Harris CBE, a trailblazing senior military leader, joining the celebrations to help honour a lifetime of outstanding service and contribution.

The ceremony reminded everyone that the Windrush story is not simply part of Britain’s past. It is a living legacy reflected in the families, professions and everyday contributions that continue to shape Long Eaton.

Local Leaders Reflect on the Importance of Recognition
The evening was attended by Erewash MP Adam Thompson and Councillor Becca Everett, representing the Mayor, who recognised the importance of celebrating the Windrush Generation and ensuring their contribution to Long Eaton is not forgotten.

Councillor Becca Everett said: “This is my third year attending the LESLA Windrush Legacy Gala, and it continues to go from strength to strength. Now we must look beyond the annual celebration and consider how we can visibly recognise and thank the Windrush Generation for more than 75 years of contribution to Long Eaton.”

Adam Thompson MP said: “Having attended past LESLA Windrush Legacy Gala featuring David Olusoga, Baroness Floella Benjamin and now Sir Lenny Henry CBE, I have seen how these occasions bring education, celebration and poignant reflection to Long Eaton. It is a privilege to support this wonderful event, and I encourage others to support and experience it.”

Music, Celebration and Community Spirit
Guests enjoyed live entertainment from singer Luke Powell, followed by DJ FIGA, with plenty of singing and dancing throughout the evening.

Professor Laura Serrant CBE, Chair of LESLA ALLIANCE, also addressed guests, reflecting on the importance of heritage, community and the charity’s future ambitions.

The evening captured the warmth, pride and strong sense of community that have become hallmarks of the annual Gala.

Looking Beyond the Gala
Now a registered charity, LESLA ALLIANCE and its Board of Trustees are focused on delivering their wider charitable purpose across Long Eaton and surrounding communities. Alongside preserving Windrush heritage, their work encompasses education, culture, volunteering, community connections and support for those in need, helping to build stronger, more connected communities where everyone can belong, contribute and thrive.

Next on the calendar is the LESLA Christmas Winter Fayre on Sunday 6th December at The Sportsman Pub, Granville Avenue, Long Eaton, featuring food, arts and crafts stalls, with an opportunity to shop, support local traders and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Plans are also progressing for a new LESLA Community Hub, in partnership with The Sportsman, offering community-wide activities, information and support, alongside further heritage and cultural initiatives for Windrush Day in June 2027.

To find out more about LESLA ALLIANCE, upcoming events or how to get involved, visit www.leslaalliance.co.uk or email info @ leslaalliance.co.uk.