SF: March 25 marks the 200th anniversary of the Slave Trade Act, which spelt an end to the buying and selling of slaves in British colonies. Many organisations will be commemorating this major event. Ben Spragg reports.

IN today's society, the thought of one person owning another is seen as a diabolical concept and almost unimaginable.

It is hard to believe that slaves were being bought and sold in this country just 200 years ago.

But how much has really changed?

In 1807, the slave trade was made illegal in British colonies. However, 200 years on and the disturbing problems of people trafficking, slave labour and child workers still causes misery for millions.

It was not until 1834 that slavery itself was abolished within the British Empire thanks to the work of protagonists such as William Wilberforce and Granville Sharp.

Today Stroud is home to the only monument celebrating the act that began to shape the morals of modern day Britain.

The anti-slavery arch at Paganhill will be a focal point for celebrations taking place in the area.

It was built in 1834 by Henry Wyatt and was intended as the entrance to Farmhill Park House and its grounds, which used to stand on the land now occupied by Archway School.

It will be the starting point for a march on Sunday, March 25 to celebrate the bicentenary of the 1807 act.

The march also aims to highlight the fight against a horrific trade that is still a prominent issue today.

It is being organised by Stroud parish priest Rev Canon Barry Coker.

"I thought it was important that something was done on such a significant date," said Father Barry.

The march, to be led by Stroud Samba band, will be preceded by a ceremony at the arch starting at 3pm where Archway School students will lay a wreath.

An actor will join marchers playing the role of key anti-slavery demonstrator Granville Sharp, whose untiring efforts helped secure the act of 1807.

Marchers will carry a banner with the message "1807 - Slavery Abolished? - 2007" to remind Stroud that slavery continues to destroy lives even today.

They will walk to St Laurence's Church, Stroud, where there will be a service at 4.15pm with a speaker from Christian group CHASTE, which works to end modern day slavery.

An event will also take place at 7.30pm on Wednesday, March 14 at the Old Town Hall in the Shambles, Stroud where the Mid-Gloucestershire branch of Amnesty International is holding a public meeting with a speaker from Anti Slavery International.

Branch secretary Carole Oosthuysen said: "Everybody's interest has been stimulated by the 200 year anniversary. It is particularly important that youngsters understand the significance of slavery in terms of today's society.

"Slavery and slave like conditions are still a huge problem and it is vital that as many people as possible help support such a worthy cause."

Commemorative events on such a poignant date remind us of the errors of the past and will encourage others to pick up the fight against the diabolical treatment of human beings that continues to inflict pain and suffering on men, women and children from all over the world.