about Echoes of Brighton’s Past

Find out a little more about Echoes of Brighton's Past...

Welcome to Echoes of Brighton’s Past,  a personal project by Dr Bert Williams MBE. For over 40 years, Bert has dedicated himself to recording the stories of Black communities in Brighton & Hove and across Sussex.


His journey began in the Caribbean, and through this site, he shares his own story alongside the lives of those who have shaped his world.

Bert uncovers hidden histories that until now have gone untold.


This project is more than just history; it’s a celebration of the people and experiences that have helped make our community what it is today. We invite you to explore these stories and discover the tapestry of Brighton’s heritage.


  • Listen to podcasts created by Bert.
  • Read about the Black nurses who helped shape Brighton’s NHS and more.
  • Discover more untold stories from Sussex and beyond.
Poster for the Thomas Highflyer Bus Trip from Brighton to Newtimber on Saturday 12 September 2026. B

Thomas Highflyer Bus Trip 2026

August 27, 2026
Join the Thomas Highflyer Bus Trip from Brighton to Newtimber on 12 September 2026 for talks, food, music and remembrance. Booking essential.

Sussex and British Slavery: What the Records Reveal

August 11, 2026
UCL records reveal Sussex links to Caribbean slavery. Echoes follows the evidence towards the estates and the enslaved people recorded there.
Charri memorial backdrop

Chattri memorial event 2026

May 29, 2026
Attend the Chattri Memorial Service in Brighton on 14 June 2026, remembering Indian and Nepalese soldiers from the First World War.

Davinder Dhillon OBE

May 2, 2026
The story of Davinder Dhillon, the Brighton teacher who helped keep alive the Chattri Memorial Service for Indian soldiers of the First World War.
Suchi Chatterjee, Brighton-based writer, researcher and public historian

Suchi Chatterjee and Brighton’s Hidden Histories

April 19, 2026
Explore Suchi Chatterjee’s work in Brighton, from Thomas Highflyer to museum and heritage projects on Black history, empire and public memory.
Sarah Lee – co-founder Brighton and Hove Black History project

Sarah Lee

April 1, 2026
Sarah Naomi Lee co-founded Brighton & Hove Black History in 2002. Discover her role in uncovering hidden stories and shaping Sussex heritage.