PEACE and goodwill to all was the message at Diwali celebrations last Wednesday, when well over 100 people in colourful traditional dress gathered to mark the Hindu new year 2066.

Mayor of Barnet Councillor Brian Coleman addressed the crowd at Barnet Multicultural Community Centre in Algernon Road, West Hendon, delivering news about the recent acheivements of various groups and individuals.

The event, organised by the Barnet Asians Old People Association (BAOPA), was an opportunity for the presentation of charitable donations and gifts in recognition of community efforts, which were interspersed with performances of Indian music and dancing.

BAOPA Chairman Sukhdev Mehta explained: "Diwali is a time when food offerings are made to the gods as thanks for harvest crops."

After the formalities, guests enjoyed an array of extravagant foods as part of the harvest celebrations.

Mr Mehta recognised BAOPA for "looking after the spiritual wellbeing of their members" through their community work and fundraising, as well as the various activities they offer such as yoga classes, walking groups, seminars, English lessons and daytrips.

The Mayor expressed how good it was to see such a large and diverse turnout and thanked guests from the West Hendon Safe Neighbourhood Team and the police for their zero tolerance stance on racism in the borough. He also made special mention of the energy of BAOPA's oldest members, quipping: "Eighty is the new 60, and the way pensions are going that's just as well."