Hundreds of people from across Lancashire braved the unseasonal chilly weather to watch Kabaddi in Blackburn.

The Kabaddi Mela took place at Pleasington Playing Fields on Sunday, at a new location at the site next to the changing rooms.

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.

As well Kabaddi festival goers were treated to cricket, volleyball and stone-lifting demonstrations.

The weather did not prove to be a hindrance to players in the end. After earlier heavy rainfall, the afternoon remained dry despite the chilly wind.

A large stage area was put up to host special guests and sponsors who got a grandstand view of the match.

New Blackburn MP Adnan Hussain was special guest at the event with all the sponsors and supporters announced to the stage alongside a team of dhol drummers who livened up the show.

The game itself saw a number of hotly contested matches with players warming up the crowds with their acrobatic celebrations and skills.

Player celebrations are always one of the highlights

Two players tussle and competition heats up

The event was organised by a dedicated team of volunteers. These included, Jangeer Mughal, Cllr Mohammed Irfan, Raja Zaf, Haji Abdul Khaliq and Cllr Zamir Khan.

Organisers said: “We have had some glorious weather in years gone but this year was a lot different.

“Despite the early rain it dried up and the atmosphere was fantastic later in the afternoon and we still manged to get a good crowd. It shows how popular the sport is locally,

“A huge thanks to all the volunteers who helped put on the event for the professional attitude of the Kabaddi players who put on a show.”

Fans were wrapped up warm over the chilly weekend

The Kabaddi Mela came a week on from the horse show at the same playing fields.