MORE than 200 people attended the joint Eid and Christmas celebration at a Rossendale school recently.

Organised to celebrate the similarities of the two religious festivals, the event was held at Alder Grange High School and organised by the Rossendale Mela Committee.

The event was described by organisers of a fusion of British and South Asian cultures and featured performances by BMC Europe Goodshaw Band, Adeela, specialising in Asian dance, and a presentation of the similarities of the two festivals by children from Haslingden Primary School.

Visitors also enjoyed a presentation by the Rev Garry Wareham, of Haslingden Baptist Church, and the Imam of Rawtenstall Islamic Centre, Molana Obaid-ur-Rahman Awan.

Elaine Walsh, arts development officer for Rossendale Borough Council, said: "This is the first time we have held such an event and it was a real success.

"Everyone entered into the spirit of the event and it really was a celebration of these two cultures.

"We are hoping to repeat the evnt next year, but in the meantime we have Rossendale Mela 2004 to organise.

"We would love to hear from anyone who would like to help in the organisation of the event."

If anyone would like to get involved in future events contact Elaine Walsh on 01706 244673.