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The Mela has, of course, been one of the most important dates on Bradford's calendar for years now, and 2007's had promised to be 'bigger and better' - with some really big name acts heading to Bradford's Peel Park for the two-day celebration. At least 120,000 visitors were expected to come along to enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of what has become one of the biggest events of its kind in Europe.

120,000 were expected

Following an inspection by Bradford Council's safety officers on Monday July 2nd, the Council took the decision to cancel this event. Inspections over the weekend revealed pools of standing water in key areas and there are concerns that any attempt to use the Park will cause damage which it would take several seasons to repair.

Mike Powell, Bradford Council's Emergency Planning Team manager, says: "The park is waterlogged at the moment and there is more bad weather predicted for most of the week so trying to fix large stands into the ground would be difficult and dangerous. Although this is a huge let down, we have been beaten by the elements. We have to be responsible and consider the dangers associated with getting the park ready for next weekend and we are not prepared to put people at risk."

Bradford Council Leader, Councillor Kris Hopkins, agrees: "If there was any way we could go ahead with it we would but we have to be realistic and consider the safety of the staff working to get it ready, the public at the event, and the effect it would have on the park itself."

Councillor Anne Hawksworth, Bradford Council's culture portfolio holder, was also looking forward to this 'jewel in the crown' of UK Melas but wants to remind people that it's not the only thing that's happening: "We must now look forward to the other events taking place in the district this summer such as the Bradford Classic Car Show later this month, and preparing for next year's Mela to make it an even bigger and better event."

Some truly unique productions had been planned including collaborations between world famous saxophonist Andy Sheppard and Kuljit Bhamra, an 'inspirational' musician and talba (a kind of drum) player. Also expected was Indian fusion with JoSH on Saturday, then on Sunday Pakistani pop sensation Haroon was to headline with Bhangra superstars RDB - fresh from performing with Akshay Kumar at the IIFA awards in Sheffield in June. Top choreographer Pratap Shetty - who's worked with Bollywood and Big Brother star Shilpa Shetty - was also due to perform.

Now council officers are looking into the possibility of programming some of the bands scheduled to play at the Mela as part of its concerts' programme ove the next year.