PREPARATIONS are under way for Blackburn with Darwen's Mela festival later this month, which could be the borough's biggest ever.

The celebration of Asian music and culture has followed the Arts in The Park festival to a larger venue, capable of pulling in bigger crowds.

This year's two-day event kicks off in Witton Country Park on July 17, a week after Arts in the Park.

A council spokesman said the Blackburn with Darwen Mela Committee had worked tirelessly in partnership with the town hall to stage what could be the best Mela in Lancashire.

Festivities start at 1pm on both days and last until 9.30pm, with music, food, funfairs, and fashion, to ensure revellers don't leave the party early.

The Mela Committee has also added a host of extra events, including a new media zone, sponsored by Blackburn College, where people can try their hand at DJ-ing, singing, or music production.

The Mela will also have its own bazaar, with a host of hand-made goods on sale.

On Saturday, July 17 Bombay Bajas, Rangeela Group, Baksh Jawaad Qawaal Party, Gubru Punjab, Sahara and Naeem Abass Rufi play the main music stage. On the bill the following day are Revive, Raghav 'So Confused', Ustad Itishaam and Zamir Patwari Group, Salinder, Pardesi, Hunterz plus a 'very special international guest'.

A Mela spokesman said: "The face of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Mela has changed over the past year with a new time, new date, new location, all of which will help the event to grow."