CHART-TOPPING megastars from the Asian music world will converge on Blackburn to entertain a gathering of up to 30,000 people.

Blackburn Mela -- a free outdoor festival -- boasts a breathtaking line-up of acts from across Britain and abroad.

The so-called Prince of Asian music, Taz and Stereo Nation, from London, are travelling to East Lancashire as part of their world tour.

They will be joined by other successful acts including Mauzam Rizwan Qawaal Party of Pakistan, Silinder Pardesi, Legacy, B21 and the Nosheed Group.

Blackburn bands the SAZZ group and Dostana will also perform at the weekend event, which is planned for August 4 and 5 in Corporation Park.

Other attractions will include fashion shows, classical music, drama, poetry, traditional dancing, a fun fair, stalls and Asian cuisine.

Naushad Surve, chairman of the organising committee, said: "This is our second Mela and it is to be the biggest ever in East Lancashire. We aim to make Blackburn one of the most important dates in the Mela calendar.

"It has taken eight months of hard work by volunteers to get to this stage. We have secured megastars who most people only ever see on the television. They will perform on an 80ft stage.

"We can only thank Blackburn with Darwen Council for having the vision to support us. There is a lot of demand for a big celebration of this kind. It can only help develop community spirit, build relationships and promote understanding."

The majority of funding for the Mela has been provided by Blackburn with Darwen Council. Businesses and other organisations are also offering sponsorship.

Naushad said: "The event is free but raising money for charity will be important. We will be helping local children and two orphanages in India and Pakistan."

Anybody interested in booking a stall or young people who would like to perform on the second stage should ring 01254 59303 office hours, 01254 694967 evenings or 0781 8412356 after 4pm.