More than 100 schoolchildren from across Preston have taken a stand against racism.

They performed at a concert to mark the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

More than than 200 people attended the event to celebrate diversity and oppose racism at the University of Central Lancashire’s Venue 53.

Pupils from Ashton Community Science College gave a drama and dance performance during the evening.

Lancashire County Council were one of the organisations behind the event.

Cabinet member for children, young people and schools county councillor Matthew Tomlinson said: “This was a fantastic event. It addressed a sensitive subject by promoting positive messages, rather than focusing on negative prejudice.

“The audience heard the choir sing their hearts out, as well as watching fantastic creative and hard-hitting drama and dance performances from Ashton Community Science College, echoing the message of the choir.”

Read more: Preston’s Sikh community run kitchen for the homeless

Following the concert on Friday there was a day of entertainment held on the Flag Market and despite the weather many turned out for Bollywood and salsa dancing.

Chair of Preston and Western Lancashire racial equality and diversity council Makhlisur Rahman said: “This event is so important in promoting community cohesion. We are extremely proud of our local schools and young people and I’m personally delighted when they take to the stage like they have just done to convey a strong message of peace and integration.

“I firmly believe that Preston is a model city of good community relations and I’m delighted to promote a message of One Community – One Preston.”