THOUSANDS of visitors turned out in force to celebrate cultural diversity today, enjoying an assortment of foreign foods and entertainment.

Organised by charity Welwyn Hatfield Ethnic Minority Group, the tenth annual Kaleidoscope Festival was in full swing as visitors took advantage of the sunny weather.

Held in Stanborough Park, Welwyn Garden City, visitors sampled a selection of cuisines including Indian and Caribbean, while Bollywood and modern street dancers showcased a series of dance moves.

Maureen Pascal, a member of the charity, who helped organise the day, said: “We’ve had a very good turnout again this year - about 10,000 people have come along.

“We hold the Kaleidoscope Festival in order to celebrate the wealth of different culture in the area, to educate people who have preconceived ideas –which are not necessarily correct- of different faiths and cultures.”

Music, arts and crafts from around the world were also on display at an array of stalls, and representatives from a variety of faiths across the district were on hand to discuss religion.

For the first time in the festival’s history, the volunteer-run charity decided to charge a £2 entry fee in order to help cover its costs.

Ms Pacal explained: “Every year a lot of hard work goes on behind the scenes to ensure the day runs smoothly – a lot of volunteers give up their time.

“We’ve had to start charging a small entry fee into the festival to pay for the marquees, stages and licences – all of which aren’t free.

“It’s been a very successful day and any extra money we make will be going to the charity, which offers support and advice to ethnic minority individuals and communities in the area.”