MORE than 30,000 people are expected to attend a massive Asian celebration in Manchester.

Organisers of the Greater Manchester Mela, at Heaton Park, promise something for everyone as different generations and cultures come together for a day packed with entertainment.

The dynamic fusion of music, family events and exotic culinary treats from the Asian continent is fast becoming one of the city's favourite annual multi-cultural events.

Entrance is free and visitors and invited guests will be able to enjoy an action-packed day from noon until 8pm.

Coun Afzal Khan believes the 2003 mela will be the biggest and best yet - whatever the weather. Coun Khan said: "The mela is a useful vehicle in bringing together different communities. For example, this year we're going to have Chinese arts and crafts, Bosnian and Kurdish dancers and many other cultural performances.

"In the future, we want to expand even more on cultural activities to make sure the Manchester mela establishes itself as a truly international event embracing all cultures."

The programme will include a huge fun-fair, cultural performers, more than 125 food, culture, sport and clothes stores and ladies' fashion shows.

The line up has been confirmed as: Asian Sound Radio Roadshow, Punjabi MC, Metz & Trix, 5RB, Sahara, G I Jatt, Kambhamrah, Dalvinder Singh, Gubi Sandhu, Assia Sumen, a Qawali Group, Bosnian and Kurdish Dancers, Chinese Lion Dance and many others.

A feature of the mela will be stands offering education, careers, employment and health advice, supported by MANCAT and Connexions Greater Manchester, employment agencies and others. Tweet