Youth learn art of turban tying

A Leicestershire Sikh community has held a special workshop to ensure the tradition of wearing a turban does not die out.

Organisers said they fear the art of tying the turban will be forgotten if youths are not taught more about it.

The headwear which is associated with the faith dates back almost 300 years.

Karandeep Singh helped organise a session in Oadby to raise awareness of the turban, used by Sikhs to cover their long, uncut hair.

Monty's role

"There are a lot of youths that shy away from wearing the turban," Mr Singh said.

He said when he was growing up there were not enough Sikh role models but the profile of the turban has been raised with the arrival of sporting stars like cricketer Monty Panasar.

He said the event attracted more than 80 people, including 30 girls.

"By having these kind of events and these kinds of role models in the community we are hoping to raise the profile of the turban for Sikh girls and boys and it can be promoted - and they will feel comfortable wearing it."