EXETER police officers went along to a Nigerian community fun day on Sunday, July 21, to meet families, chat to children and help with some of the activities.    

This event was organised by Joy and Edith from the Exeter Nigerian Community and Inclusive Exeter.

The aim of the event was to promote community cohesion and celebrate the vibrant Nigerian culture.

Sergeant James Wellard giving out stickers at the Nigerian community day.
Sergeant James Wellard giving out stickers at the Nigerian community day. (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Sergeant James Wellard and PC George House, from one of the Exeter police neighbourhood teams, were at the event which took place at Wonford Playing Fields.

It was opened by Exeter City Councillors, Marina Asvachin and Jane Begley.

The family fun day involved egg and spoon races, ball games, stickers for the children, hook a duck, face painting, bouncy castle, three-legged races, sack races and plenty of delicious food. Everyone was welcome and the weather stayed fine.

Some of those who attended the Nigerian community day. AQ 8118
Some of those who attended the Nigerian community day. AQ 8118 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Project Administrator for Inclusive Exeter, Mathew Jose Mangatt, added: “Thank you so much for arranging for police officers to attend our event. Their presence contributed greatly to the safety and community spirit of our gathering.

“The officers were courteous and professional, and their interaction was appreciated by all attendees. We are grateful for the support and assistance of the neighbourhood policing team. We hope to see them at future events!”

Some of those who attended the Nigerian community day. AQ 8095
Some of those who attended the Nigerian community day. AQ 8095 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Devon and Cornwall Police work hard with all communities to make sure their services are accessible to everyone.

This is especially important for groups and individuals who may feel they are under-represented in their communities and often find it hard to reach out to the police. 

Exeter is a diverse, multi cultural city and it is important that local people feel they can speak to officers if they have concerns or queries.

On the Inclusive Exeter stall were, from left, Director Alan Quick, Better Connections Project Manager Mathew Jose Mangatt, Project Co-Ordinator Mahsin Mahbub and Director Arlene Lewis. AQ 8086
On the Inclusive Exeter stall were, from left, Director Alan Quick, Better Connections Project Manager Mathew Jose Mangatt, Project Co-Ordinator Mahsin Mahbub and Director Arlene Lewis. AQ 8086 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

To get updates and news on the neighbourhood teams in Wonford and other areas of the city please follow Exeter Police on Facebook. 

Inclusive Exeter runs a range of projects for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.

Its Better Connections project is supported by The National Lottery Community Fund and Exeter City Council.

For more information, visit the website: Inclusive Exeter .