PREPARATIONS for the third Preston Mela have got off to a flying start, with the announcement that the event has attracted big money.

Organisers behind the colourful festival of South Asian Culture have received confirmation of major funding and sponsorship from several authorities.

The event, to be held in Avenham Park on August 8, will be backed by £7,500 from Preston Borough Council, sponsorship of £3,000 from the Guild Community Healthcare NHS Trust, and further sponsor money from Lancashire County Council's public relations department and Midland Bank.

Offers of grants have also been received from Lancashire's arts unit and the North West Arts Board, of £1,700 and £1,500 respectively, to help fund an important new installation featuring a video aimed at the ethnic communities.

The video will be shown at the Preston Mela and tour Lancashire.

This year's events programme is yet to be announced, but local musicians, regional artists and a major international band have already pledged support.

There will be dance, fashion shows and workshops, in addition to refreshment and trade stalls and traditional family entertainment.

There will also be displays from the Queen's Lancashire Regimental Recruiting Team and Lancashire Constabulary.

The event is organised by the Mela Steering Group, which has more than 20 members representing all sectors of the South Asian community in Preston, in addition to groups such as Prescap, Age Concern and Sahara.

The event has attracted the attention of the Millennium Commission, who have offered organisers a grant of £25,000 for the year 2000.

Mela Steering Group chairman Vali Patel said: "I am delighted that the borough council, county council and the North West Arts Board and people from the private sector are supporting this important and colourful event.

"The free festival showcases South Asian culture, as well as providing a fun family day out for all sectors of the community."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.