Some 20 members of the Warwick and Smiths parishes were honoured for their contributions to their communities at an emancipation commemoration last night.

The honourees were celebrated as part of The Trail of Our People 2015 Emancipation Celebration’s Passing The Torch programme organised by the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs at the Ruth Seaton James Centre.

Guests were treated to a host of entertainment between the biographies of the honourees which were read out and accompanied by short “vignette” films.

Entertainment included a rendition of Redemption Songs by Hannah Eggen, dances by United Dance Productions and In Motion, a solo of Amazing Grace by Toni Robinson and a performance by RockFire Productions. Those honoured were recognised for their meaningful and significant contributions to their respective communities.

Among the honourees were John Barritt Sr; Eugene Blakeney, Clarence O Darrell; Mallory Darrell; Dr George Burt and Gloria McPhee; Russell Pearman; Nurse Caro Spencer-Wilson; Thomas Stowe; The Talbot Brothers; Major Albert Benjamen; Nurse Iris Davis; Francis Edmondson; Julia Lightbourne; Herbert Simons; Adele Tucker; Martin Wilson; Cobb’s Hill Methodist Church; Pembroke Hamilton Club and Warwick Workman’s Club.

The evening’s mistress of ceremonies Tina Evans-Caines, said: “Last year we focused on families from Southampton and Hamilton parishes.

“This year, our focus will be on individuals and organisations that have, despite challenging and extenuating circumstances, shaped and supported their local communities; and by so doing have made lasting contributions to their respective communities.”

•Editorial, Page 4