BARBADIANS in Huddersfield are putting themselves on the map by hosting independence day celebrations.

Guests from Manchester, Oldham, Leeds and Liverpool will join a church celebration for the 37th anniversary of Barbadian Independence day. Members of the Huddersfield Barbadian Association are hosting the event for the North of England for the first time at Huddersfield Parish Church next Sunday.

Marian Beckles, one of the organisers said: "The Huddersfield branch isn't large, but we feel its time to put ourselves on the map. It is a privilege to host the service and we hope to put a smile on everyone's face."

The Mayor of Kirklees, Clr Barbara Allonby, representatives of the Barbados High Commission and the Bishop of Pontefract, the Rt Rev David Hallett, are among guests invited.

A message will be read out from the Barbadian Prime Minister and Yvonne Hutton will sing a solo. The True Colours choir will also perform.