Britain’s first black policeman will be honoured in Maryport.

John Kent, who started his career in the town, will be remembered with a plaque on Back Brow where it is believed the old Maryport lock-up used to be. Organisers are also using the chance to challenge young footballers about racism in the sport.

Among the guests at next Saturday’s plaque-laying will be Cumbria’s first black footballer, Peter Foley. Town clerk Lisa Douglas said following the ceremony and a talk at the Settlement Mr Foley will be speaking to young members of the Maryport Football Club, starting at 12.30pm.

The event has been organised by the Maryport Settlement on Castle Hill, along with Maryport town council.

It will be erected on Back Brow at 11am in the presence of councillors, members of the Settlement, Mr Foley and the president of the National Black Police Association, Tola Munro.

John Kent was the son of a Senhouse family slave who was freed because of his service to the family.

It was widely believed he started his career in Carlisle, giving the city the honour of the country’s first black policeman.

However, research by retired policeman and author Ray Greenhow proved he actually moved to Carlisle from Maryport.

He was known for his integrity and a strength that helped save at least two lives during his time here, according to Mr Greenhow’s biography.

There is a second celebration on Saturday.

The town council will also be unveiling a plaque at No 1 North Quay, the former home of Edward “Ned” Benn Smith, who won the Victoria Cross in World War One at the age of only 19.

He spent many years in the army and, following his retirement, he re-enlisted to fight in the Second World War where he was killed. Last year a flagstone in his memory was erected on the other side of the harbour overlooking his home.

The original blue plaque marking his house was removed at a former owner’s request and is in St Mary’s Church with other mementos of the war hero.

A replica plaque will be unveiled at 10am next Saturday.