NEWSOME High School pupils celebrated cultural diversity during an event at Leeds University.

They were among students from across West Yorkshire, Caribbean war veterans, students and academics marking Black History month during the event.

The 14 students from Newsome, along with pupils of Salendine Nook High and All Saints, Bradley had the chance to take part in a range of workshops ranging from a `Bend it like Beckham' film workshop, to a Big Band jazz demonstration and the opportunity to meet local Caribbean war veterans who shared their experiences of serving during the Second World War and living in Leeds in the 1940s.

Dr William Gould, a lecturer in Indian history, who was instrumental in setting up the day said: "`As well as celebrating different cultures and learning about the history of Black and minority ethnic communities, we want to show young people that Leeds University is a welcoming place where you can study a huge range of diverse and exciting subjects."

Newsome student Ryan Boothroyd said he particularly enjoyed the musical workshops and Adam Greenhalgh said it was great to meet the student guides,who were very friendly and told him about university life.

The school's ethnic minority achievement co-ordinator Lynne Blackburn also organised a visit by local rap artist Foxy to the school during Black History month.

He spoke about black scientists and inventors using the medium of rap.