A MAN who discovered his mixed heritage is set to give a talk.
David Yeates, who grew up in Ashton-in-Makerfield in the 1970s, will be sharing his story at Haydock Library.
In early adulthood, he found out he was the son of Steve Belcher, a black GI based at Burtonwood Air Base.
In 2002, Mr Yeates travelled to Atlanta to meet his father for the first time, took a DNA test, and was welcomed into his extended African American family.
Mr Yeates' journey to discover his identity has been captured in an interview for the 'Brown Babies DNA Histories' series, which was uploaded in April 2025 by The Mixed Museum.
Mr Yeates is one of the 'brown babies' - a term adopted by the children of black American soldiers stationed in Britain during and after World War Two, white British women, and their descendants.
He grew up in a predominantly white town and a white family, not knowing why he felt different.
His parents were reluctant to discuss his heritage, and he eventually stopped asking questions.
His discovery of his father's identity came as a significant revelation in his adult life.
His father, Steve Belcher, was based at Burtonwood Air Base, where Mr Yeates' mother worked in the 1970s.
The reunion in 2002 in Atlanta marked the beginning of a close relationship between Mr Yeates and his father, which lasted until Mr Belcher's death in 2023.
Mr Yeates is now writing a memoir about his life, reflecting on his history and identity.
His story, titled 'From Wigan to Atlanta,' has drawn significant attention, with more than 510,000 views and almost 1,000 comments on his interview, many of which resonate with his experiences.
The talk, which will take place on October 7 at 6.30pm, is free to attend, but tickets must be booked in advance.
Refreshments will be served.
Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite.
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