RECORD crowds packed the Asian Mela as thousands enjoyed the festivities in warm sunshine.

Organisers said the cultural event, which took place on Sunday on The Rye, High Wycombe, was the most successful in its three year history as people travelled from across the South East to take part.

Fairground rides, live music, fire eating and traditional Asian cuisine were among the attractions from midday to a firework crescendo at 9pm.

Hatim Qureshi, one of the chief organisers, said: "It was definitely the biggest so far. I think we crossed the 12,000 mark and the crowds seemed very happy."

He said: "There were a lot more none Asian people there this year and that was very good to see. It is what we were trying to aim for to get a multicultural event and I think we achieved that."

Despite cases of racial tension in other parts of the UK, the day passed without incident.

High Wycombe Mayor, Cllr Nigel Vickery, said: "What tension? Everyone in High Wycombe realises we are one community. When we all work together it benefits the town. It's a gorgeous day, absolutely gorgeous, it shows the diversity of the town and there are so many people here it really is a success."

Azhar Eisa, a pensioner from Holmer Green, who has lived here since 1970, said: "It has changed so much here, I remember when it was not so common to see another Asian in Wycombe. It is a very important day for the Asian community in the town, it is a taste of the homeland culture."

Mum Louise Chandler, from Fulton Close, High Wycombe, said: "I'm really enjoying it and I'd definitely come again. I think it is very important to exchange cultures like this."