A GROUP of budding volunteers and professionals have been working hard to create a Worcester Mela for the city in 2022 to celebrate South Asian culture and heritage.

This weekend will see a taster of what is to come, say organisers, with a mini extravaganza as part of the Worcester Festival.

The Mela Festival is designed to bring people together from all walks of life to celebrate 'togetherness'.

It is also an opportunity to showcase some of the traditional music and entertainment that is part of the Asian community in the city.

The festival will see a number of different performances in the heart of Worcester City, on the High Street outside the Guildhall on Saturday where the Worcester Mayor Cllr Stephen Hodgson will officially launch the event.

Nazia Riaz, who sits on the Mela committee said: " Over the last year we have received lots of support and encouragement from the local community to organise an event like this so that we can show off this fantastic culture.

"The event will be fun, colourful, vibrant and inclusive, so please pop down with your friends and family to take part in this fantastic event."

There will be three performances starting at 11.35, 12.45 and 2pm. The performances will involve traditional Indian dancing and interactive Bhangra, where you can take part and join in the moves.

There will also be traditional food on offer, both sweet and savoury and natural Henna tattoos available.