Theresa Villiers, MP for Chipping Barnet, has issued the following Vaisakhi message to the Sikh community in north London:
"I would like to wish all my Sikh constituents a very Happy Vaisakhi. This is a special day for Sikhs all around the world, marking the establishment of the Khalsa in 1699. I hope all those celebrating Vaisakhi today will have a chance to spend time with their family and friends.
Vaisakhi is an important date in the national calendar, reflecting the huge contribution made to life in the UK by the Sikh community, including here in London. The history and cultural background to the festival contains messages and themes which can resonate with all of us."