Pupils from Grantham's Priory Ruskin Academy will learn about the story of Stephen Lawrence, the importance of challenging discrimination and promoting inclusion at a special event being held in Lincoln tomorrow (Weds).

The event marks the first Stephen Lawrence Day, an annual memorial announced last year by Prime Minister Theresa May.

The 18-year-old was murdered in a racist attack, in south London, 26 years ago.

Pupils from four Lincolnshire secondary schools - including Priory Ruskin Academy - have been invited to the event organised by Just Lincolnshire and entitled Truth in Justice.

After hearing Stephen's story, pupils will hold discussions in groups before Year 10 drama students from Market Rasen De Aston School perform scenarios designed to challenge the audience and trigger discussion about challenging all forms of discrimination.

The event is supported by Lincolnshire Police, the Office of the Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner, the CPS and Victim Support.

Wes Shelbourne, General Manager of JUST Lincolnshire, said: "In October 2018 we first developed the concept that has come to fruition with the Truth in Justice event.

"It is great to have the support of so many partners in ensuring its success.

"The story of Stephen Lawrence is powerful and it is vital that the lessons learnt from it continue to be at the forefront of people's thinking, particularly with regard to hate crime. It is our hope that the Truth in Justice event will do just that."

Deputy Chief Constable Craig Naylor, Force lead for Equality and Diversity at Lincolnshire Police, said: "I am proud that we are supporting this important event to mark Stephen Lawrence Day.

"It is valuable for us all to have important discussions about challenging hate crime, and for the public to have confidence in reporting incidents to us.

"Much progress has been made since Stephen's murder in 1993 but there is more to do.

"In Lincolnshire, racial crime continues to be the biggest reported hate crime and, although figures have reduced in the last couple of years, the issue needs to be tackled robustly.

"We are clear that hate crime is unacceptable and will not be tolerated."

Marc Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lincolnshire, said: "Nobody deserves to be targeted because of who they are, including their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or disability.

"It is encouraging to see Lincolnshire school pupils reflect on the significant events surrounding the tragic murder of Stephen Lawrence. We need future generations to continue this learning and be confident to challenge others' behaviour.

"This excellent event will be an important step in that journey."