SUPPORTERS of the Swindon Mela from near and far have been speaking out in support of the festival, which is under threat because of a funding shortfall.

The Old Town-based celebration of Asian arts and culture is in urgent need of sponsors to help fill a £20,000 hole in the budget.

This year's festival due to take place on Saturday, July 29 is in jeopardy after the main sponsor, NatWest, pulled out.

Jaswant Grewal, 54, from Lawn is specially qualified to speak about the Mela. The voluntary worker was born in the Indian state of the Punjab, and moved to Swindon in 1977.

He said: "It's a fantastic representation of all aspects of Indian culture.

"Bangra music comes from the Punjab, where there is a large Sikh population, but there are also performances in Hindi and various other languages."

Mr Grewal visits the Mela each year with other first generation arrivals from India. He explained why the festival brought people together.

He said: "People from all over the Asian community look forward to the Mela. It's a highlight during the year where we can focus on our culture.

"The Mela is growing fast and we all hope to carry on supporting it if everyone made a small donation we would soon plug the gap."

Speaking about last year's event, Swindon resident Jeremy Holt, from Holt Clark Solicitors, contacted the organisers to say: "Wow! What an event. I thought that it showed Swindon at its best. Well done to all concerned. It is much appreciated."

Roger Ryton, from Newbury, also got in contact to say: "There was far too much good entertainment at this year's Mela. Well done to Swindon, I look forward to Mela 2006."

Swindon Council leader Mike Bawden is one of the councillors for Old Town and residents have told him how popular the event is.

Coun Bawden (Con, Old Town and Lawn) said: "Personally I've not had time to make it to the Mela, but the feedback I get from residents is that it's extremely popular and very well run.

"The council supports the Mela by granting use of the Old Town Gardens for the day, and it seems that many people have an enjoyable time."

And the fun is not confined to Old Town residents.

Linda Ponting of Malmesbury, phoned the Adver to say: "My granddaughter Emma and I have attended each one for the last three years and I am hoping it will be saved. Emma is 10 and loves dressing up in Asian costume."

Dilesh Hadani, from Swindon, hosts visitors from around England during the Mela. He said: "I had invited all of my family from around the country to Swindon for the weekend we all had a great time. Thanks again for putting on a brilliant day for all."

The Mela, first held in July 2003, attracts 16,000 people.