WORLD cuisine and global cultures will be celebrated in Colchester on Sunday.

The Festival of Rice, an initiative of the Colchester Multi-Ethnic Forum in association with the East Anglian Indian Association, is taking place at Highwoods Community Centre, in Highwoods Square.

Peoples from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean will showcase their heritage through food, dance and music.

Entertainment will include music from a Ceilidh band, Syrian and Nepalese dancing and a Bollywood workshop.

Popular rice dishes and meals from around the world will be available to sample, as well as cooking demonstrations for Turkish dolma, Indian dosai and sushi.

Poobie Naidoo, secretary of Colchester Multi-Ethnic Forum, said: “It’s intended to show Colchester is a welcoming community we’re all proud of, and a chance to celebrate our community’s culture, diversity and heritage.

“It’s also an opportunity to have fun and show the richness and unique strength of this united community.”

The free event takes place between 3pm and 7pm with proceeds going to Refugee Action Colchester.