Thousands of revellers enjoy cooking workshops and live music at Ipswich’s Indian Summer Mela 2017

The Corilla Cultural Association dancers perform at the Indian Summer Mela in Ipswich. Picture: JAMES AGER (Image: James Ager)

Thousands of people have flocked to Christchurch Park for the event, which has seen top chefs carry out cooking demonstrations and Ipswich mayor Sarah Barber try on a sari.

New Ipswich MP Sandy Martin took to the main stage earlier today to express his delight at such a wide range of cultural offerings being celebrated at the mela.

Visitors enjoy the variety of dance acts performing on stage. Picture: JAMES AGER (Image: James Ager)

Dance troupes and singers will continue to perform live music to crowds throughout the day as the sunshine stays bright for revellers.

The Ipswich Malayalee Association Dancers perform at the Indian Summer Mela in Ipswich. Picture: JAMES AGER (Image: James Ager)

Chair of the Ipswich and Suffolk Indian Association Poli Mohan said she was overwhelmed at how bustling the event was.

Sant Ghai, left, concentrates as she applies a henna tattoo. Picture: JAMES AGER (Image: James Ager)

Speaking this afternoon, she said: “It’s only 2pm now and we must have thousands and thousands of people here.

A young, local 11-year-old girl impresses the crowd by performing a Bollywood dance. Picture: JAMES AGER (Image: James Ager)

“It’s been a fantastic event and there are still so many more activities to happen.

“We’ve had some special guests here too including the MP and mayor.”