The annual gala, held at Chilwell’s Village Hotel, saw comedian and actor Sir Lenny Henry take the stage as the eleventh-hour special guest. He replaced Judi Love, who was originally billed but had to withdraw due to unforeseen circumstances. Organiser Fiona Daniel announced the change, expressing both disappointment at Judi’s absence and excitement for Sir Lenny’s attendance.
Sir Lenny, co-founder of Comic Relief, recently wrote and starred in the ITV1 drama Three Little Birds, which was based on his mother Winifred’s experiences arriving in Britain from Jamaica in 1957 as part of the Windrush generation. His presence at the gala highlighted the event’s focus on honouring this significant group.
The event, attended for the third year by Erewash council’s Deputy Leader Councillor Becca Everett, also featured awards for individuals who have significantly contributed to the community. Brigadier Karl Harris CBE, one of the first Black one-star officers in the British Army and an Afghanistan veteran, received a Lifetime Achievement Award for establishing the Army Multicultural Network.
Councillor Everett remarked on the privilege of attending, stating, “We as a nation owe a huge debt to the Windrush generation. These were people who were invited to come here to forge new lives and help rebuild a country shattered by war. The council is proud of how the borough gave them such a warm welcome.” Erewash MP Adam Thompson also attended and praised the event.
Fiona Daniel described the evening as “extraordinary,” noting Sir Lenny’s warmth, humour, and inspiration. She emphasised that the gala’s core purpose was honouring the Windrush generation and celebrating the community they helped build. The next LESLA event is the Christmas Winter Fayre on Sunday 6 December at The Sportsman pub in Long Eaton.
