ENGLAND'S highest-ranking black female police officer is to be the keynote speaker at the launch of Black History Month in Ipswich.Chief inspector Robyn Williams HMIC, of Nottinghamshire Constabulary, has been an inspiration to many, especially during the struggle to advance the cause of equal opportunities and race relations in the police.

ENGLAND'S highest-ranking black female police officer is to be the keynote speaker at the launch of Black History Month in Ipswich.

Chief inspector Robyn Williams HMIC, of Nottinghamshire Constabulary, has been an inspiration to many, especially during the struggle to advance the cause of equal opportunities and race relations in the police.

The concept of the Nia Memorial Lecture, which Ch Insp Williams will be giving at the New Wolsey Theatre on Monday at 7pm, was inspired by the parents of teenager Stephen Lawrence, who was murdered in April 1993.

It was a time of great turmoil and struggle for them. However, with much determination and a deep sense of purpose, the Lawrences challenged the system to such a degree that it caused the British police forces to take a look themselves and also challenged wider society.

The result was a series of inquiries raising profound questions and making strong recommendations that were to change the governing policies of many national institutions.

Today the constabulary is presenting positive career options for many minorities.

The Nia Project is committed to charting the historical journey of Africans and the African Diaspora.

The memorial lecture again inaugurates and celebrates the month with significance and purpose.

Tickets are free and anyone interested is asked to book as early as possible by telephone the New Wolsey box office on 01473 295900

WEBLINK: www.wolseytheatre.co.uk