Edward Davey MP has officially launched a new Indian movement in Tolworth by donning the shawl of honour and lighting the first flame of a lamp bringing the Light of Thanksgiving.

The Indian Kairali Associated Movement (Ikam) has existed since 2007, but it is only now that it has more than 250 member that it has been formally inaugurated as an official body.

Surbiton resident and association secretary, Matthews Thomas, 50, said: “I have been here for so many years and Tolworth has changed a lot in that time with a very large and vibrant south Indian community which has emerged.

In his speech at Our Lady Immaculate Church, he said: “We treasure all our traditions and we don’t want to see them forgotten. So one of the purposes of this association is to preserve those treasures and pass them on.

“Ikam is not only the acronym of the association, it also means unity. We want our children to grow up fully integrated into both traditions, understanding and valuing the best qualities of both. That does not mean we are to be inward looking.

“We have to look outwards as well and reach out into our local community to give back as well as to receive.”

The launch on September 11 also marked Onam, a festival of thanksgiving for the fruits of the earth.