UK Athletics will host a special exhibition to mark Black History Month ©Getty Images

UK Athletics has announced plans for an exhibition next month in celebration of Black History Month.

The event, due to be held in London on October 25, will focus on celebrating Black History Month through a photographic exhibition, with the aim of continuing to inspire the next generation to get into athletics for years to come.

It will be led by former athlete and now UK Athletics’ vice-president and equality, diversity and engagement lead Donna Fraser,

An annual celebration in the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States – though celebrated in differing months based on location - Black History Month exists with the purpose of recognising  the history, experiences and accomplishments of black people.

Athletics, both for men and women, is widely recognised as a sport which has provided many Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) role models.

The exhibition - entitled "COACH" - will deal with the contribution of past and present black and Asian athletics' coaches in the UK from grass roots to elite level, and will highlight those who were athletes themselves and want to share their experiences and expertise with emerging stars.

Four-time Olympic gold medallist Sir Mo Farah is one of many Black and Minority Ethnic role models who will be celebrated in a special UK Athletics exhibition in London in October ©Getty Images
Four-time Olympic gold medallist Sir Mo Farah is one of many Black and Minority Ethnic role models who will be celebrated in a special UK Athletics exhibition in London in October ©Getty Images

"It is with great pride that we can formally announce our finalised plans for the ‘COACH’ exhibition in less than two months’ time," Fraser, a double World Championship bronze medal in the 4x400 metre relay and fourth in the 400m at the 2000 Olympics, said. 

"As an organisation there are several key messages we want to deliver, with the crux of the exhibition being to promote positive BAME role models, especially females, while inspiring BAME communities to get involved in athletics, whether that be through participation, coaching, officiating or volunteering.

"Athletics is the most diverse and inclusive sport globally, and UK Athletics respects the time and effort all coaches give to the sport to produce quality athletes at all levels."

Photographer Ernest Simons said: "I love sport and love taking shots of athletes at all levels even more. 

"A photograph can tell a story of emotions, whether that be pain, happiness, disappointment; the list is endless.

"Working with UK Athletics for Black History Month has given me the opportunity to tell the story of that unique coach-athlete relationship through photography, which many people do not get the chance to see, and so I wanted to ensure this exhibition tells many stories for everyone from any background to engage with and be inspired."