The organsiers of Blackburn Mela have defended their pricing policy after a trader criticised the price of stalls at this weekend's event.

Mohammed Taj, who runs a ladies fashion store in Bradford, said he had been told a stall at this year's event, on Saturday and Sunday, would cost £100 per sq metre, which would cost him between £300 and £600.

He said this compared poorly with neighbouring Melas in the north that were charging as little as £40 flat rate for a 32ft stall.

Mr Taj said at Bradford's Mela he had paid £250 for two days, at Leeds £40 for a day and at Huddersfield £140 for a day.

He said that in Bradford he had been told there was an expected crowd of between 700,000 and one million people, whereas the predicted attendance in Blackburn was 20,000.

"I think it should be a festival not a money making machine," he added.

He said his business had only been running two and half years and he was using the Melas as a platform to promote his business.

Today, Blackburn with Darwen Council said its prices were in keeping with other areas and festivals were intended as non-profit making.

Coun John Milburn, executive member for culture, leisure and sport, said: "Costs for stall areas are in keeping with other Melas across the country and are in big demand."

He said that there were eight of the 35, non-catering, spaces left. "The festivals organised by the council are not money-making events. They are for the enjoyment of all."