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Forest Mela 2009

But that is set to change when the first-ever Forest Mela takes off this summer.

A fantastic programme of multicultural entertainment is planned – celebrating the wealth of diverse ethnic communities who live and work locally – to be held in the grounds of Appletree Court, Beaulieu Road, Lyndhurst, on Saturday August 8, from 11am to 8.30pm.

The festival is open to local people of all ages and entrance is free.

Bhangra music will be provided by DJs Satti and Rajinder and performers such as African drummers, street dancers and gypsy jazz will be on stage to entertain the crowds throughout the day.

In addition to exciting music and dance, there will be a wide range of workshops, shows and activities – whether it’s visiting a traditional gypsy wagon, an Indian craft stall, trying on a sari or getting a henna tattoo.

An ethnic food court will give visitors the opportunity to sample delicious food and drink from many countries – Indian, Chinese, Thai and African specialities, among others, will be on offer.

Forest Mela 2009 is being organised by the Diversity Network, driven by New Forest District Council, Hampshire County Council, Forest Bus and Community First New Forest.

The Arnewood School at New Milton has given assistance.

NFDC portfolio holder for employment, health and wellbeing, Cllr Maureen Holding, said:

“New Forest District Council is truly delighted to be hosting the first ever Forest Mela. This event gives us the opportunity to show the people of the New Forest how committed we are to raising multicultural awareness and celebrating the rich diversity of the area in which we live.”

Many local charitable organisations, including Carers Together, Solent Youth Action, CAB, the Phoenix Centre for children and One Sight, will be present to promote their work.

The Forest Mela programme is subject to change.

For more information visit www.forestmela.org.uk or see the Forest Mela page on Facebook.