Kite flyers on cloud nine

7:28pm Sunday 11th May 2008

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TEMPERATURES were not the only thing soaring at Lydiard Park this weekend - as the 18th Swindon Kite Festival returned to its natural home.

More than 4,000 people from across the country flocked to soak up the sunshine and watch the colourful aerial displays.

It was the first time in five years that the festival had been held at Lydiard Park, after a spell in Wroughton.

The festival was first held at Lydiard Park in 1991.

David Robinson, of the White Horse Kite Flyers, said the weekend had been a great success.

He said: "We've seen a lot of families here today - some who come regularly, some complete newcomers.

"There's a really nice atmo- sphere."

One such family was the Wilsons from Purton.

Mother Tanya and children Jessica, six, and Oliver, eight, were attending the festival for the first time and had bought a kite for the family to share.

Tanya said: "It's kept them occupied for a good two hours, which is quite a feat. They have played with kites before but seeing so many other ones all around them, and the wonderful things people are doing with them, seems to have really got them going."

Jessica said: "At first I thought it was a bit boring because I couldn't get it to fly but now I like it."

Oliver said: "I'm quite good at kites but not as good as some of the other people. There are some great kites - I reckon they must be very expensive."

Marla Miller, from the American Kitefliers Association, has been coming to the Swindon event for the past 12 years.

She said: "I love it here - I think England is just wonderful and this festival has such a great atmosphere.

"I've been to kite festivals all over the UK - in Portsmouth, Basingstoke, Cleethorpes - but I really love this one.

"The people are so friendly and it's always very laid back.

"And the full English breakfast at the Three Crowns, in Brinkworth is out of this world."

The festival featured displays of kite flying finesse from local experts and enthusiasts from around the world, as well as a colourful variety of inflatable kites.

"Help was also on hand from experts for those not quite so experienced in the art of kite flying.

"I ripped mine almost in half trying to put it together", said 20-year-old Ellie Fitzpatrick, from West Swindon, who had come to the festival with her friends. "It still sort of flew - but only for about five seconds.

"Next time I'll think I'll take up the offer of some advice."