August 25th, the Sunday of the Bank Holiday weekend, will once again see Hyde Park filled by this large community event.

This will be the fourth year of an event, originated by local Asian community leaders, who have been supported by local councillors and local community groups, along with other volunteers. The aim of the event is to provide free family fun, in a safe environment, that the whole community are welcome to attend. The initial event, in 2021, was organised at very short notice and limited in size by Covid restrictions at the time. Despite this over 3000 people attended and gave positive feedback on their experiences. In 2022 the event was expanded, attracting over 6000 visitors, on a fine summer’s day. 2023 was affected by heavy rain on the morning of the event, which still managed to attract 1500 people, when the rain abated in the afternoon.

The first three years have been self-financing, with income from stall holders, sponsors and a raffle of prizes donated by local businesses. A Hyde Mela Trust account was set up, to ensure proper accounts were kept of income and expenditure. The 2023 event was run at a small loss, due to the dampening of the attendance figures. For that reason, the Trust embarked on the process of applying for funding from an outside source, the main application being to the National Lottery. The Trust was given great advice from Action Together on how to make the application, which was successful in securing a grant of £11,400, to help fund the event for 2024 and 25.

Money will still be raised from the usual sources, to ensure the event continues for even more years ahead. This year, the event will, once again, feature live music and entertainment from local performers, a classic car show, fairground rides, football games, a model tank display, birds of prey, as well as a multitude of artisan and food stalls. The event will still be totally free to attend, with additional toilet facilities available, including disabled toilets.

Mayor of Tameside, Betty Affleck, will formally open proceedings at 1pm, but gate opening and entertainment will start at 11am (ending at 6pm). Professional security will be on patrol throughout, to ensure everyone is kept safe, with medical assistance on site for any emergencies. Dogs on leads will be welcome. You can also bring a picnic and your own refreshments, but alcohol will not be able to be bought on site.

Large banners will be on display to advertise the event from two weeks before, with posters on display in local shops. Raffle tickets will also be available beforehand, for those who can’t attend to show their support. So, come to the Mela and be part of the celebration of unity.

Andy Richardson