AN event to campaign against racism and bullying in the community has held its ninth annual event in Bournemouth.

Kick it Out was organised by Vince Edwards and the Youth Project TEAM - Together Everyone Achives More at the YMCA Bournemouth.

In previous years Kick it Out has been organised as a family fun day event, but this year those behind it decided to work with schools to include as many young people as possible. In all, seven schools and colleges participated, including students from Heatherlands Primary, Pokesdown Community, St Lukes Primary, Bethany Junior School, Avonbourne School, Bourne Academy and Bournemouth and Poole College.

Jane Smith, peer mentor co-ordinator for the TEAM Project at YMCA Bournemouth, said: "Our aim for the day is bring our community together, educating young people about issues surrounding discrimination and racism - and of course have lots of fun.

"We ran workshops led by several of our youth workers here at YMCA Bournemouth on various forms of discrimination, including racism, ageism and issues affecting those young people who are disabled.

"We also had a treasure hunt that was based on the theme of Black history - to celebrate Black History month - that the children really enjoyed.

"There were prizes that included two tickets to an AFC Bournemouth game and some official Kick it Out t-shirts.

"After enjoying some food from around the world our youth project TEAM performed their Rosa Parks play.

"Furthermore, there were also performances from rapper Chucky T and African drumming workshops. Overall the day was a huge success and we look forward to next year."

Jane thanked all of the schools involved and businesses that donated food and drink for the day, as well as Bournemouth University and UK Futsal volunteers for helping out.

The YMCA is currently inviting more young people aged 13-16 to join the project and possibly participate in its peer mentoring programme.