Broadband from the Bandstand

For the second year running, the University of Teesside is broadcasting the sights and sounds of the Middlesbrough Mela (Sunday 18 July) live on the internet, making it accessible from anywhere in the world. The website address is: www.boromela.co.uk

This year, in partnership with Onyx Internet, the live stream will be established via wireless technology, allowing direct transmission from the newly built bandstand in Albert Park, without trailing cables. Commonly known as “webcasting”, the internet dimension of the Mela is being implemented by Steve Thompson, the University’s Community Media Co-ordinator and Andrew Vause, Technical Developer with the University’s School of Computing.

In addition to getting a live taste of the day in the form of webcam images and an audio feed from the main stage, those logging on can access a kaleidoscope of pictures uploaded by roving digital photographers.

Both the live stream and all the pictures from the day will be available on the Internet at: www.boromela.co.uk from 12pm onwards. People in the park with phone cams can their pictures to: pics@boromela.co.uk for uploading.

The Middlesbrough Mela Festival is now in its 14th year. Last year’s event attracted 25,000 visitors and seven hours of unbroken sunshine. Middlesbrough Borough Council, the events main organiser, is extremely proud of the way in which it brings together people from across the ethnic spectrum in a day of free celebration and interaction.

For more information on forthcoming Community Media initiatives and participation opportunities, please contact Steve Thompson, Community Media Co-ordinator, Department of Academic Enterprise, University of Teesside on 01642 384567 or email s.d.thompson@tees.ac.uk

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