Organisers and fans are gearing up for a major Kabaddi event in Blackburn.

The Kabaddi Mela will take place at Pleasington Playing Fields on Sunday with festivities kicking off in the afternoon.

Ahead of the festival, volunteers gathered at the Waheed’s Restaurant to hear from organisers and supporters.

The traditional South Asian sport sees invaders enter the opponent's half of the pitch and attempt to tag as many players as possible before trying to get back to their own half, all without being caught by the opposition.

Zaf Raja, one of the organising team, said: “We have a packed programme of events lined up this year and are expecting a big crowd.

“It will be great to have a separate Kabaddi event this year so people can get a real taste for the sport.”

Organisers and supporters gathered at the Waheed's Restaurant to hear about plans for the 2024 Kabaddi Festival

The festival will also feature stone lifting, racing and volleyball with the Kabaddi the highlight of the day and kicking off later in the afternoon.

Zaf added: “It is always a great family event and we are hoping the weather holds out. In recent years we have always had some decent weather.

“We advise everyone to park sensibly and in designated spots.

“We have hosted this event on a separate day to the horse show which was held last Sunday to avoid too bigger crowds.”