TALENTED young Bolton Asians will mark their success at university with a night of celebrations.

A total of 400 people, including civic and community leaders, are expected to attend the third Apna News Graduation Gala Evening, which will feature guest speakers, music and food.

The event is held to celebrate the achievements of Asian graduates and to allow them to meet local business chiefs who will be attending on the night.

Azizah Mohamed, development manager for Bolton-based Asian newspaper Apna News, said: "This is our way of getting all our talent under one roof and to give them a pat on the back. Some of the employers will also be looking for graduates and we want to encourage networking."

The Graduation Gala, on Friday, September 14, at the Reebok Stadium, is supported by the Bolton Evening News, Tower FM and Apna News alongside this year's main sponsors, ADT and Bolton Council.

Bipin Patel, chairman and editor of Apna News, said: "We are thrilled that the BEN and Tower FM are supporting this event because it will help to send the right message across to the whole community.

"It would be narrow-minded to think that this event is just for the Asian community to enjoy. Over the last two years it has openly offered all those who wished to attend from the public, private and voluntary sector a valuable insight into what makes Bolton a very special place to live and work."

He added: "We all appreciate there is still a lot we can do, but it is a genuine step towards unlocking the potential that resides in these communities.

"A trust is beginning to develop and this often leads to a greater understanding and a deeper respect when such differences are celebrated in such a constructive and positive manner."

Cllr John Byrne, executive member for culture, said: "We should be mindful that many of today's graduates are proud to have been born and brought up in Bolton and we can help by encouraging them to consider some of the local opportunities that exist. This event can add considerable to the local skills base."

The guests on the night will also be entertained by Indian karaoke and a jazz band called Galarie.

The graduates will also be presented with their scroll in front of their friends and family.

Apna News is also arranging an Indian makeover for interested guests. There will be a fashion show and dress fitting on Saturday, September 1, and a henna night on Wednesday, September 12.

There are a limited number of seats still available for graduates and their families, or businesses who are interested in supporting the event. For further details contact Azizah Mohamed on 365456.