OXFORD'S rich ethnic diversity and community cohesion took a big step forward when more than 3,500 people thronged Cowley Marsh Park to celebrate the second annual Mela yesterday.

The eight-hour inter-cultural gathering throbbed to music, song and dance from across the world. There were western and traditional eastern sports, including football, volleyball, netball, martial arts and Bangladesh's national game, kabbadi.

There was cricket ball throwing, a tug of war and for Father's Day, an old-fashioned egg and spoon race. Colour and drama came in the form of a Chinese lion dance and for the fashion conscious, clothes from many parts of the world were paraded.

There was food and drink - and plenty of fun, said organiser Nisha Prakash, from Oxford City Council, which pumped £6,000 into the event.

She said: "We are so pleased with those who helped make it a success and the wonderful support from the people of Oxford. It gives people a sense of belonging.

"After the success of last year's smaller Mela, we were overwhelmed by people wanting to take part this year. We have laid the foundations for an ever bigger Mela next year."

The Mela was opened by Oxford's Lord Mayor John Tanner, who praised the organisers for helping bring together the city's diverse cultures.

A leading light in the East Oxford Cricket Club, Khalid Mahmood, 36, said: "It was a great day out. I was pleased to see different races getting together to share in so many cultures. I've learned a lot about Chinese food.

"The Mela helps opens eyes and gives them a better understanding of people from different backgrounds."

Andrew and Natalie Harvey, from Marsh Road, spent two hours at the Mela and enjoyed every minute. Mr Harvey said: "The wide mix of music was outstanding. It was a credit to the organisers and all those who took part. There's great scope for an even better Mela next year."

Alison Williams, from London Road, Risinghurst, was impressed by the range and mix of entertainments, many of which she had never seen or heard before.

She said: "The whole event gave a great insight into the growing diversity of Oxford. It is something of which the city can be proud."

One of the music comperes was a member of the Oxford Afro-Caribbean community, Gino Humphrey. He said: "There was something to suit everyone's taste - from India and Western music, soul, jazz, Flamenco and jive. It kept the Mela buzzing."