Thousands flock to kite festival

Hundreds of kites were on display during the festival

Soaring temperatures helped attract more than 30,000 people to a major kite festival on Wearside.

The Sunderland International Kite Festival featured displays by flyers from China, India, Japan and the USA.

On the event's 21st anniversary spectators, were also treated to a large outdoor music stage, street theatre and craft marquees.

The weekend festival took place at the Northern Area Playing Fields in Usworth near Washington.

'Perfect weather'

Highlights included an altitude competition and a "rokkaku", where flyers knock each other's kites down.

Event director for Sunderland City Council Val Craggs, said: "We were thrilled to see so many families enjoying themselves throughout the weekend.

"The weather was perfect for this particular event, which saw thousands enjoying the kites, musical line and outdoor stage."

The 2007 festival is due to take place on 30 June and 1 July.