On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the community is invited to a special event in Dalston Square celebrating the legacy of pioneering entrepreneurs, entertainers and entertainment venues linked to the site. The free event, taking place from 1pm to 7pm, will mark the launch of new heritage elements installed in the square through a collaboration between the Older Generation, Younger Generation (OGYG) organisation and Hackney Council; fulfilling Reggae music producer Sir Collins’ vision to keep this history alive for future generations.
The Sir Collins Legacy Honours event will feature the official unveiling of a new history panel detailing the site’s rich cultural past, as well as engraved stones honouring trailblazing singers, musicians, producers, sound system owners and club owners linked to legendary clubs like Cubies and the Four Aces. Attendees can also visit a newly established New Cross Fire Memory Garden and a pop-up museum display showcasing this history. The event will be hosted by actress and presenter Judith Jacob.
Those to be honoured on the day include sound system owners Lloyd Coxsone, Fatman, Jah Shaka, Chicken the Thunderstorm, singer Louise Mark, Reggae band Black Slate and entrepreneurs Joe Wieczorek, Newton Dunbar, George Brightly and Sir Collins.
The day’s schedule includes:
1:30pm: Unveiling of the Dalston Square History Panel
3:00pm: Unveiling of engraved stones honouring entrepreneurs and entertainers
4:45pm: Opening of the New Cross Fire Memory Garden by the New Cross Fire Foundation
5:30pm: Live acoustic performance by the iconic Reggae band Black Slate
Since 2020, OGYG has worked with community partners to bring this vision to life, ensuring that vital history is preserved and shared with future generations. This has included working with Sir Collins’ personal archive, which provides an invaluable record of Black British music, entrepreneurship and community development.
“We are incredibly proud to see these heritage elements come to life,” says Gary Collins of OGYG. “This event is a chance for us all to enjoy, learn, and remember the contributions of those who shaped this community and beyond.”
Delicious Caribbean food will be available for purchase from Cummin’ Up Caribbean Restaurant. The event will be held at Dalston Square, off Dalston Lane, E8 3BQ. Public transport is strongly advised, with the nearest station being Dalston Junction (Windrush Line).
