MORE than 5,000 people are expected to attend this weekend's sixth Bolton Mela festival.

Live music on two stages, a fashion show and a firework display are some of the attractions on offer for the two-day event, which aims to promote community celebration and integration in the borough.

Because of the large numbers expected, this year's festival will be held at Queen's Park, Chorley New Road, Heaton, rather than its usual venue of Spa Road Playing Fields.

On Saturday evening, music and dance will be provided by the Ankur Folk Dance Group from India, and the day will end with a fireworks display.

Internationally acclaimed music acts Legacy, B21, Dalvinder Singh and Orchestra Music Time (The Bollywood Group) will appear on Sunday on the main stage.

Sambada and African Osagyefo will take to the community stage in the afternoon, with Dance Fusion EFX and Asian arts events in the evening.

Stalls will sell traditional Asian foods and goods such as jewellery, clothing and Henna body art kits. On the Sunday, there will also be a five-a-side football competition. Local artists and community arts groups will stage displays and there will be workshops in the marquees, as well as raffles and competitions stalls.

The Bolton Mela is being supported by Bolton Council, Bolton at Home, the Asian Elders Initiative, Baba Krupa Holidays, Seva Line, The Jem, Apna News and Bolton Halwa Centre.

The Mela will run from 7pm until 9.30pm on Saturday, noon to 6.20pm on the main stage on Sunday, and from 1.15pm until 5.30pm on the community stage on Sunday. Admission is free.