New dates for Mela after riot concerns

The event has been described as a "beacon of hope"

A multicultural festival postponed in the wake of nationwide riots has been re-arranged for next month.

Middlesbrough Mela had been due to take place last weekend but was called off after violence in the town and elsewhere.

It will now be staged on 7 and 8 September following talks between organisers, the town's MP, mayor and police.

The team behind the event said they were confident it would act as "a beacon of hope and unity" for Middlesbrough and the wider region.

The initial postponement came after anti-immigration rioters in the town burned cars, damaged properties, smashed windows at the local courts and hurled bins and bricks at police.

The violence had been sparked by a knife attack in Southport, Merseyside, which left three girls dead.

Unrest spread around parts of the country, fuelled by misinformation relating to anti-immigration sentiments on social media.

Rioters in Middlesbrough left a trail of destruction earlier this month

Announcing the new dates, organisers said emergency talks had been held over the weekend, leaving them "deeply encouraged by the solidarity of all those who recognized the importance of Mela and the need to embed real social cohesion".

They added they had been "overwhelmed with hundreds of messages of support".

Mayor Chris Cooke, of Labour, said it "really showcases exactly what Middlesbrough is and what it's all about - unity and celebrating diversity".

Middlesbrough and Thornaby East MP, Andy McDonald, also of Labour, described it as "a beautiful celebration".

The free event is now in its 34th year and is expected to draw 50,000 people.