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A party to a local octogenarian

Over 30 years, community leader Connie Goodridge educated young people about Caribbean culture

Community leader Connie Goodridge-Mark BEM MBE is turning 80 and is being thanked for a lifetime of good works with a special birthday party, taking place on Saturday 20th December between 6-10pm at Priory Community Centre, Acton Lane, W3.

Connie has been a regular face at west London schools over the last three decades, where she has educated young people about Caribbean culture and the role black people played in the Second World War. Her 80th birthday party is being organised by the Acton based performing arts group, Descendants, of which she is a patron.

Jamaican born Connie worked as a medical secretary during the last war and came to Britain with her husband in 1954. She is concerned that the wartime contribution of Caribbean people, particularly that of women, should not be forgotten or ignored. In particular, she has campaigned for the recognition of

Mary Seacole, a black nurse who worked in the Crimean War but received less recognition than Florence Nightingale. Connie also started the West Indian Ex-Servicewomen's Association and she has a large collection of photographs and memorabilia from the war period which she has used in local schools. Connie's other activities include teaching Afro-Caribbean dance and cookery, Caribbean story-telling, mounting exhibitions and lecturing on Black history. Connie received an MBE two years ago for services to the Black community. She lives near Goldhawk Road where she is affectionately known by many of the local children as 'Gran'.

Connie is one of the patrons of the Descendants youth group, who are showing their appreciation of all the work she has done for local children by holding this 80th birthday party. The children at Descendants chose Connie as their patron after she became involved with teaching them traditional West Indian songs.

Deputy Mayor, Cllr Mercy Umeh, who will be attending the party, said:

"Connie has made a valuable contribution to our understanding of black history and culture. She is also well-loved locally and this party will be a perfect opportunity for those who know Connie to thank her and celebrate her 80th birthday."

15th March 2004