STUDENTS, parents and the local community came together for a celebratory arts evening to raise funds in honour of the late Anthony Walker.

This important event featured a diverse range of performances from Rainhill students, including a powerful speech on the theme of #BlackLivesMatter, as well as dancing, solo singing, and a drama piece about the dangers of misinformation.

Many of the performances focused on themes such as unity, community and "the importance of being yourself".

The Anthony Walker Foundation was established in honour of black British student Anthony Walker.

Anthony, 18, was murdered in Huyton in a racist attack in 2005.

Its aim is to promote racial harmony through education, sport and the arts, and support local communities.

The proceeds from the event will go toward supporting the foundation's educational programs that promote diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism initiatives across the UK.

With the Arts Evening, Rainhill High students wanted to celebrate Anthony’s passion for the arts and support the foundation’s important work.

Earlier the same day, the school community had heard from guest speakers representing the Anthony Walker Foundation, Merseyside Police, the Jewish Council, Daisy Inclusive, and LCR Pride, all promoting tolerance, diversity, and inclusion.

The evening was hosted by Rainhill’s head boy, Andrew. In his introductory remarks, Andrew explained to the audience: “Tonight is about celebrating inclusion and diversity.

"We’re so grateful to have you here, joining us in raising funds to help the foundation continue its mission of education and promoting diversity, changing the world in Anthony’s name.”

He also referenced the social unrest experienced over the summer months, saying that these events “had no place in our community” and were a reminder “of how crucial the foundation’s work is today, just as it was when Gee Walker founded it.”

Dr Gee Walker, Anthony’s mother and founder of the foundation, was an honoured guest at the event, and gave a moving speech to the audience.

She said she had attended every single one of Rainhill’s Anthony Walker evenings, adding: “I am grateful for the continued support Rainhill has shown the Anthony Walker Foundation over the years.”

The evening was coordinated by Rebecca Chittenden, the school’s new Head of PSHE & Citizenship.

She said: “This event is a testament to the power of creativity and community in inspiring students and keeping Anthony's legacy alive.

"It’s about more than showcasing talent – it’s about celebrating resilience, diversity, and the values of kindness and respect that Anthony stood for – all of which resonate strongly within our whole school community and underpins our culture.”

Josie Thorogood, principal, praised the students for their remarkable efforts, saying: “Our students have shown tremendous dedication and passion in preparing for this evening.

"By using the arts to speak out against racism, they’ve shown how the power of creativity can drive positive change.

"We’re proud to support the Anthony Walker Foundation and to play our part in building an inclusive and respectful and collaborative community.”