Rising Bradford-born Bolly-wood stars have stepped in to help add a multicultural feel to an historic music festival.

Organisers of the Wharfe-dale Music Festival were despairing after they did not receive any interest from Asian dancers or actors.

But now Faisal Khan, 19, of Jasmin Terrace, Hollings Road, has pledged his support and urged other young dancers and actors to add spice to the traditional show.

The teenager landed a part in the epic blockbuster Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, which was dubbed the most expensive Hindi blockbuster of all time.

Speaking from London where he is attending an audition for a new Bollywood film, Faisal said: "I think it's a really good opportunity.

"I would take part in it myself, and I think it is an excellent opportunity for others to also get involved.

"There are a lot of talented Asian people in Bradford who have taught themselves to sing and dance and this will be a brilliant opportunity to showcase their talents."

His views were echoed by Neta Patel, 24, of Coll Place, Odsal, who is also a keen dancer and performer.

Born and brought up in Bradford, she was shortlisted for the Hindi film Made in India, which was directed by former film actor Vinod Khanna.

She attended a drama academy in London and said she would definitely enter the festival.

"Bollywood is so famous and popular around the world now that having an Asian section in the Wharfedale Music Festival just makes perfect sense," she said.

"It shows that the traditional festival is moving with the times. I will definitely be entering.

"There is a lot of talent out there and the festival will be a great opportunity for Asian youngsters to show what they are made of.

"It's a brilliant idea and I will be getting all my friends to enter.

"They are desperate for recognition and to be able to stand alongside Western performers."

Festival secretary Liz Hol-brooke, who devised the new categories, said she was deli-ghted.

"We did have a few problems with not many people coming forward," she said.

"I was worried that we would not get any Asian entries, but this is brilliant news. All I wanted was to have a multi-cultural feel.

"The Asian culture has so much to offer in beauty, grace and splendour that I just envisaged a beautiful display.

"We have had a good response from Westbourne Primary School in Bradford and hopefully now there will be others taking part."

Anyone who wants more information about the festival should call Miss Holbrooke on (01943) 872067.