A massive police operation has been put in place to make sure that this weekend's Mela passes off peacefully.

The event, at Peel Park on Saturday and Sunday, is expected to attract more than 120,000 visitors.

With dozens of musicians, singers, dancers, martial arts performers, comedians and tempting foods to suit all culinary preferences, it is the biggest Asian-oriented festival in Europe and the high point of the Bradford International Festival.

Due to the high number of visitors, West Yorkshire Police has issued traffic congestion warnings in Bolton Road and Otley Road between 1pm and 9pm on both days.

People not attending the Mela are being asked to use alternative roads in and out of the city.

Superintendent Nigel Hibbert, of Bradford North Police, said the free car parks will be signposted on all routes into the area.

"People need to be aware that a large number of vehicles will be attending and wherever possible they should use the free parking facilities in the park," he said.

"If you do park on the street, have respect for the local residents and their need to get in and out of their houses and park responsibly.

"We will be strictly enforcing the parking regulations."

Festival organiser Robin Morley said he was looking forward to a trouble-free weekend.

"We certainly hope to have a similar audience this year as last," he said.

"There is a very good music programme, the weather forecast is good and we are looking forward to an enjoyable weekend and a safe family event."

People are asked not to bring alcohol or glassware into the park.

And Supt Hibbert said he hoped the weekend would pass off peacefully.

"For me it's about saying this event is a family event where there will be people from all age ranges," he said. "It is a matter of conducting yourself properly while there so that you don't spoil the fun for anybody else."Hundreds of pounds were raised for the Lord Mayor's Appeal along the route of last Saturday's festival parade.

The collection raised £711.46 which will go towards Councillor Allan Hillary's chosen charities which are the Bradford Outward Bound Association and the Nell Bank Activity Centre at Ilkley.