LOCAL organisations are being encouraged to participate in the ninth Bolton Health Mela, the latest in a series of festivals promoting and celebrating health and wellbeing in the town.

It takes place on Saturday, October 13 and has been organised by the National Forum for Health and Wellbeing in association with the University of Bolton, which is the venue for the event, and the Rotary clubs in the town.

Organisers are bidding to make this year’s Health Mela bigger and better than ever and are urging local groups to register their interest early.

Health Melas have become popular since the first one was held in Preston in 2002. Since then, the NFHW have organised more than 40 across the North West and further afield, establishing a reputation for excellence in health promotion.

They are based on the south Asian model, which combines news exchange and socialisation in a warm, friendly and stimulating environment.

NFHW exhibitions organiser Ravi Shah said: “They bring together individuals, families and communities spanning all ages, races and cultures, to mix with professionals and volunteers representing all aspects of the health spectrum.

“This format provides a unique and enjoyable occasion to acquire health related information and enjoy entertainment and refreshment.

“Visitors also have the opportunity to take a personal health check in the form of a Health MOT provided in a relaxed, informal atmosphere with friendly counselling from health professionals.”

Organisations are being invited to contact Bimpe Kuti at the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing, University of Bolton discuss how they might take part, by emailing b.kuti@bolton.ac.uk or Ravi Shah, NFHW exhibitions organiser ravi.shah@nfhw.org.uk