KNOX Academy’s headteacher was “bursting with pride” after the community came together for a special event.

The Haddington secondary school held its first ever diversity evening, where a range of topics, including international food markets and cultural celebrations, were highlighted.

It took place on February 9 and attracted people from throughout Haddington and the surrounding villages.

Sue Cook, headteacher, was delighted with “an amazing event”.

She said: “The array of workshops were a huge success and all who took part said how much they had enjoyed them – learning something new and having fun.

“It was so nice to see families coming together to take part in these too. The market place [we had] had so many diverse aspects, from charities such as Guide Dogs for the Blind, Sight Scotland, East Lothian Council Countryside Rangers looking at biodiversity and many local producers selling their produce. For those with energy, the smoothie bike was a real winner!

East Lothian Courier: Youngsters from the surrounding primary schools were invited to the eventYoungsters from the surrounding primary schools were invited to the event

“The food court offered an amazing array of Italian, Indian and Scottish cuisine, and ice cream and cakes for the sweet toothed.”

The culmination of the evening was a diversity show, which Ms Cook described as “absolutely stunning”.

She said: “Every single act had a diverse theme and added to the ambience of the evening.

“The Lion Dance raised the roof, and the guest speakers, Jamie Andrew and [human rights activist] Sir Geoff Palmer, [Professor Emeritus and Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University] were inspirational.

“The primary school acts were so confidently presented and highly enjoyable.

“Knox Academy’s acts of jazz, our gospel choir, poetry and dance were equally brilliant!

East Lothian Courier: Knox Academy's jazz band performed Better git it in your soul and Nostalgia in Times Square by Charles MingusKnox Academy's jazz band performed Better git it in your soul and Nostalgia in Times Square by Charles Mingus

“We were also privileged to host the premiere of the East Lothian Council LGBT film and this was very fitting given our recent award of our Silver Charter.

“The evening ended with Haddington Pipe Band playing La Baum, Highland Cathedral and Scotland the Brave – lifting the ceiling off in readiness for our departure!

“This was truly a night to remember – celebrating our diversity with and across our community.”