As part of LGBT History Month 2012, an exhibition titled 'Merton's Forgotten LGBT Past' is running at Merton Civic Centre throughout February.

The exhibition looks at some of the people and events that have shaped LGBT history in Merton over the years, including pioneering British sexologist Havelock Ellis, legendary Edwardian music hall male impersonator Hetty King, children's author David Rees and many more.

And with the official theme of LGBT History Month 2012 being 'Sport', the exhibition takes a look at some of the LGBT tennis players that have graced the courts of the AELTC at Wimbledon as well as looking at the pervasive homophobia of the tabloid press towards LGBT players in the 1980's. The headline above is from an actual newspaper article that features in the exhibition about 'out' lesbian tennis players, Martina Navratilova and Billie Jean King.

The exhibitions has been organised by Merton LGBT Forum and runs throughout February in the ground floor Reception area at Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden. It is available to view from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday to Friday. Admission is free.

Merton LGBT Forum works to increase community awareness of LGBT issues and engages with the local Council and other relevant agencies on issues of concern to the LGBT community.

As part of its program of events for LGBT History Month 2012, Merton LGBT Forum has also organised a Celebration Party at the William Morris pub, Merton Abbey Mills on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 from 7PM with DJ, karaoke and legendary cabaret artiste, Miss Claire Benjamin.

And in keeping with the 'Sport' theme of LGBT History Month 2012, the program concludes on Wed, 29 Feb with a film screening of 'Kick-Off', a hilarious comedy looking at homophobia in the world of 5-a-side soccer. The screening takes place at the Council Chamber, Merton Civic Centre, Morden from 6:30 PM.

Admission to all events is free.

For more information on Merton LGBT Forum see www.mertonlgbt.org.uk Based on information supplied by .