Join in the fun at the Mela

8:34pm Thursday 24th July 2008

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THE eagerly awaited Swindon Mela will fill the Town Gardens tomorrow.

The all-day celebration of Asian art and culture attracted 17,000 people last year and this year’s free event will begin at midday.

The sixth annual Mela will be free entry.

Liz Lavender, festival and events officer said: “We’re very excited. It’s a great celebration and attracts a lot of people to Swindon who may not normally come here.

“Our feedback has always been that it is well loved.”

There will be more than 40 stalls selling Asian clothing, jewellery, accessories, music and spices.

There will also be food stalls offering a variety of dishes from Punjabi, Gujerati, Halal and vegetarian as well as Indian ice creams and sweets.

As well as indulging in Asian food and art, visitors will be treated to a variety of musicians.

The three stages will play host to the likes of DJ Gamma, The Jaipur Kawa Brass Band, Imran Khan, Jassi Sidhu and Achanak.

Those wanting a rest from the vibrant entertainment have the option of the Mela Health Zone, which offers the chance to try out alternative therapies such as Thai massage, Indian head massage, reflexology, aromatherapy and reiki.

The event organisers are urging visitors to use public transport but the car parks available for those driving to the event are at Commonweal School, Croft Sports Centre and Intel.

There will be a free shuttle service courtesy of V Cars running from the Intel car park to the Town Gardens between 12.30pm and 2pm.

Free returns from the garden’s main gate to Intel will be between 6pm and 7pm.

For more information visit www.swindonmela.com.