THE sights and sounds of a traditional Asian Mela brought Heaton Park to life on Sunday (Aug 11) as thousands of people enjoyed the open-air fun.

Not even the constant drizzle could keep the crowds away and delighted organisers reported their "best ever" event in the three years it has been held.

The action began at noon and continued until dusk with an array of attractions including a bright fun fair for children, food stalls selling samosas and meat filled naans, jewellery and body art stalls and fashion shows.

And pictured strutting her stuff during one of the popular displays is this dancer who performed during the Sony Roadshow.

There was also a selection of information stands, offering advice on health, education and employment. And a huge stage provided by Asian Sound Radio, the event's main sponsors, was the focus for entertainment throughout the eight hours of the event.

Special guests at the festival included the Mayors of Manchester, Bury, Rochdale and Oldham and was supported by donations from Manchester City and Bury Councils.

The aim of the event, which was organised by Asian representatives from both Manchester and Bury, was to bring together all communities for a day of entertainment.

And according to one of the organisers, Mr Nasrullah Khan, secretary of the Asian Advisory Service, it was a huge success.

He said: "This year there were more Indians, Bangladeshi and Sikhs who attended, which was the very essence of what we wanted to achieve. There were people from all sections of the community who were able to meet friends from other towns."

Mr Khan, whose Bury team includes Mr Liaqat Ali, Mr Mohammed Muneer, Mr M. Iqbal, Coun Farook Chaudhry and Mr M. Ibrahim, said he was worried in advance about the effects of the rain on the event and some motorists did experience difficulties retrieving their cars from the mud.

But he said the amount of people who turned up "far exceeded" his expectations.