THIS year's Blackburn Mela has been declared the best yet after a record 60,000 attended.

Glorious weather brought thousands out for the third annual two-day multicultural event, held in Corporation Park, Blackburn.

They were treated to a festival of music, including bhangra, qawali, and Hindi, drama, poetry, and classical music. Also on offer was traditional dancing, fashion, workshops, fairground rides and stalls.

Opening the festival, Blackburn with Darwen Mayor, Councillor Tony Humphrys, said: "We are going to make this the best Mela because we are going to rock all night."

And rock they did. Top of the bill on Saturday were Ministry of Dhol who have performed in Belgium and Denmark. Sunday's bill included Silinder Pardesi performing for the War Child charity, and renowned Bhangra group Achanaak.

Abdul Moulvi, 33, of Longshaw Park, Blackburn, said: "We went to Bradford Mela last year but this is much much better. There are many more people, good food, and the weather is fantastic."

Majid Rahim, 27, of St James' Road, Blackburn, said: "It's a good day out with a few friends and there's a good line-up of bands. There are a lot more women and a lot more families this year -- that's good."

Ajaz Faqir, 25, of Brougham Road, Burnley, said: "I think it's quite wonderful to see different classes of muslim, and different communities coming to enjoy themselves.

"Everyone can unite together for once and do things. A lot of English people have been saying to me we are not welcome here. They need to target more English and other communities."