The County Town will come alive to the sound of bhangra drums this week as it gears up for the sixth Maidstone Mela festival.

The Mela, organised in partnership by Maidstone council and the North West Kent Racial Equality Council, will take place in Mote Park on Sunday, September 14.

To launch the run-up to the event students from Archbishop Courtney, St Francis and St Michael’s Primary Schools will take part in a procession on Thursday.

It will be led by the Four by Four Bhangra dhol drummers starting outside Marks and Spencer in Week Street at 10.30am and will continue down Fremlin Walk before turning left into Earl Street and finishing back at Week Street.

Thousands of people are expected to turn up to this year’s Mela which promises music and dance from around the world, exotic food, and a performance by Abba tribute band Voulez Vous.

Cllr Brian Moss, cabinet member for leisure and culture, said: "The Mela is an important part of Maidstone’s culture. This year’s parade will see scores of children showcasing their art work through the town and will be a taster of what September 14 will bring."