Thousands of people visited the recently-revamped city centre park throughout yesterday to enjoy the city's annual Mela.

Bollywood singers, Indian instruments and bhangra music kept families entertained in glorious weather.

Civil servant Dianne Guzik, 45, from Fulwood, Preston, said: "I think it's great. I come every year.

"I like the food stalls and the ethnic clothing, and the dancers as well."

The theme of this year's free festival was climate change and faith perspectives and it also aimed to give people health advice – including heart screening.

Gulab Singh, chairman of the Mela Trust, said: "It's really fun-orienated and that's the best way to engage with people to provide health advice.

"It is also about other services including the Community Gateway Association, exhibitions and workshops. Artists from up and down the country came to perform. It was busy and the weather really helped us."

For the youngsters, there were fairground rides and games and other attractions included henna painting.

Mo Ali, 35, travelled to the city from Rossendale in East Lancashire just for the event. He said: "I just came to Preston to check out the Mela.

"It was the first time I've been and I thought it was good. It was something I've never experienced before.

"It brings out different cultures and there's something for all to enjoy."

Ester Paradazi, 24, of Cedar Road in Ribbleton, said: "We were just looking around at the stalls – they're quite interesting and informative."

The date for next year's Mela has been announced as June 6.

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