TILBURY Library is celebrating tomorrow's (Sunday, 22 June) anniversary of the Empire Windrush's arrival to the UK with a range of events, activities and displays.

National Windrush Day has taken place annually since 2017 and marks the arrival of 1,027 passengers with around 500 of those being migrants from the Caribbean who had travelled to fill labour shortages in the UK, many of them veterans of the Second World War.

The HMT Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury Docks on 21 June 1948, but passengers did not disembark until 22 June. This date is now dedicated to recognising their, and their descendant's contributions to Britain during its recovery from the Second World War and the contributions they have continued to make ever since.

From Monday, 23 June, Tilbury Library will be commemorating the 77th anniversary of the Empire Windrush's arrival in the UK, with children's artwork from local primary schools in Thurrock on display.

Thurrock Museum has donated its 'Through the Porthole' display, which looks at the arrival of the Windrush through the perspective of the Windrush generation.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy with an immersive story time event from 3.30pm until 4.30pm on Monday, 23 June and Tuesday, 24 June giving families a chance to go back in time and imagine the journey that took place on the HMT Empire Windrush. 

After the story, arts and craft lovers can then enjoy making their very own boats.

A themed Windrush Rhyme Time will be taking place on Wednesday, 25 June from 10.30am to 11.30am to give parents the chance to socialise and enjoy sharing nursery rhymes with their children.

The boat building fun continues between 10.30am and 12.30am on Saturday, 28 June, where children can build a Lego boat during a free workshop.

Cllr John Kent, cabinet member for Sustainability, Art, Culture and Heritage, said: "The arrival of the Empire Windrush is a significant event in Thurrock's heritage.

"The Windrush Generation and their descendants have played a key role in the UK's history and it's important that we continue to celebrate the contributions they have made to our country.

"Our local libraries have so much to offer all of our residents, and by hosting these special activities and events we have a chance to share our local stories and history, and ensure we continue to celebrate the contributions the Windrush Generation have made to our country.

"I fully encourage everyone to head down to Tilbury Library to have a look at their really interesting displays or get involved in some of the fun activities they have on offer."

Learn more about what's on at your local library.