THE Ebony and Ivory Cultural Group, based in Preston, is closing due to lack of support.

But treasurer Maxine Grant is determined to keep up her community-based work - she is already working at the Harris Museum and is hoping to help out with the Preston Disability Information Service.

She said: "We achieved a lot in such a short space of time, getting together different cultures to celebrate a Caribbean tradition on the streets of Preston.

"We only started Ebony and Ivory three years ago and we did well because we've given money to the carnival committee and church funds.

"It took several months preparing for the one-day carnival, so we can be proud of the legacy we have left behind for future generations to follow.

"We have to close because we're not getting much support.

"It's not easy getting people involved in the carnival and when you do, at the last minute they say they don't want to go on the street in the costumes and everything.

"While the carnival is excellent, I can't help feeling the effort can be wasted because it is just one day and it is a lot of money.

"It's not forwards enough for me. But I will continue to work diligently for the community and will be moving forward in the community."

The group's remaining funds have been distributed between Royal Preston Hospital, the Seventh Day Adventist Church and the Caribbean Carnival Committee.

Maxine added: "We have given £500 to the children's clinic at RPH for a new monitor, which will benefit both the hospital and the community."

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