CELEBRATING the cultural diversity of the local community was at the heart of a festival held this weekend.

Involving students, staff and local associations and organisations the Welcome to our World (WOW) festival drew dozens dozens of people to share in the celebration.

Staged at the University of Southampton, the event celebrated the cultural diversity of the campus and wider city of Southampton and gave visitors the opportunity to experience different customs and traditions, enjoy a variety of performances and activities.

Visitors of all ages were drawn to the event to take part in a host of activities and workshops.

One of the popular activities was mask making for younger children, while families entered into the spirit of the event by taking part in drumming and musical workshops using instruments from cultures around the globe. A salsa class also proved a big draw with the sound of the carnival echoing through the corridors of the campus on Highfield Road.

A spokesman for the event said it was an important way to celebrate the cultural diversity.