HUNDREDS of West Fifers rallied together in a bid to tackle racism at a Black Lives Matter protest last Saturday.

The peaceful demonstration in Pittencrieff Park included moving speeches from poets and speakers and called on the Scottish Government to make changes to the curriculum so that black history is taught in schools.

As the Press reported in June, Crosshill mum Mercy Kessy, 23, was inspired to arrange the event after taking part in protests in Edinburgh and was one of those that spoke about her harrowing experiences with racism here in Fife at the weekend.

She said: "I would just like to say a massive thank you for everyone involved in the BLM Fife rally on the 1st.

"The turnout was amazing and the speakers were inspirational. With just under 300 people attending the event, I would like to thank Fife Council for letting us hold the event in the park, and to the police for keeping us all safe.

"I am truly overjoyed about how well the event went and the support and positive comments we have all been receiving.

"Thank you Fife, for supporting the BLM Movement and showing solidarity to tackle racism."

The programme of events celebrated a wide range of cultures but above all called for change from our politicians, institutions and communities.

Sid Akbar, who spoke to the Press recently about his horrifying experiences growing up in a Muslim family in Scotland, said: "I can only thank everyone involved in making the event a success, from the speakers and poets to the local rapper, Danny Herbz, who raised the tempo with his set.

"It was a very musical event with a strong message that all lives should matter and why people need to understand systemic racism.

"People should do research on BLM rather than get facts from Facebook or Billy down the pub.

"It was an amazing atmosphere and very positive and the support has been amazing even in the days after the event with messages still coming in to myself and Mercy."