Films honouring “local legends” have been screened to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month.

A premiere and award ceremony was held at The Woodville in Gravesend to honour community pioneers.

The sold-out event was hosted by arts organisation Cohesion Plus on Wednesday, July 24.

The first movie looked at Punjab United football club and their success in the Southern Counties East Football League.

It also highlighted the recent achievement of Karan Sanghera who is one of the first female Punjabi coaches to lead a win in the men’s game.

Another film shared the history and beginnings of Virdee Stores which was the first Indian sweet shop to open in the South East.

The store was founded by the late Hardish Singh Virdee and his father in 1968 – his wife Surinder and Gurpreet spoke on the journey and challenges faced.

A final one explored the career and legacy of internationally renowned Dhol drummer, Bhavinder Sander, also known as Machine Gun Billy.

Artistic director of Cohesion Plus, Gurvinder Sandher said: “The films were an attempt to capture some of the rich tapestry of stories that exist in our home town, stories that span generations and have shaped our communities.

“The evening was a wonderful way to bring people together shining a light on untold stories and heroes.”

After the screenings, an award ceremony was held.

Among the winners were movie participants and co-founder of Four by Four Bhangra Group, Marni Dhinsa.

Also commended were Balbir Kaur Aluhwalia and Sukhdev Kaur Sandhu from the Asian Woman’s Group who support Punjabi women in the community through exercise, social activities and trips.

Local dignitaries, including the Mayor of Gravesham, Cllr Daniel Adewale King and Chair of NHS Kent and Medway, Cedi Frederik attended the celebration to show their support.

Gurvinder who participated in the event as a deputy lieutenant, added: “I am so very proud of what we were able to produce and that so many people came out to support us, including colleagues from the Lord Lieutenant's office.

“I am incredibly grateful to everyone who graciously gave up their time to participate in the films and attend the screening.”