Bigger and better St Annes Kite Festival promised

The event, to be held on July 30 and 31, will feature two large flying arenas, live music, a children’s funfair, samba bands, a local farmers market – and the Kuwaiti national kite-flying team.

The festival has grown rapidly since being held for the first time in 2012 and last summer attracted an estimated 20,000 people, despite heavy rain on its second day.

It has quickly established itself as one of the top kiting events of its kind in the country but organisers’ spokesman Pat May is particularly excited that an international team is taking part this year - complete with the prospect of some world-class kites.

“We are really excited to have the Kuwaiti team on board,” said Pat. “As well as boasting the biggest collection of the largest kites on the planet, it also holds the world record for the largest kite ever flown – in the form of giant Kuwaiti flag and measuring a staggering 1,000 square metres. We would love for the flag to be able to make the trip to St Annes so are currently looking for a sponsor to help make that happen.

“Fylde and St Annes Town Councils have been a great help and we have already secured some very generous sponsorship which has allowed us to expand the event, more backing is welcome.

“This year we will have a stage on the beach along with the two large flying arenas and other exciting features, including Samba Sunday, with a parade featuring costumes to be made by local schoolchildren.”

Coun Cheryl Little, chairman of Fylde Council’s tourism and leisure committee as well as St Annes Town Council’s Leisure and community committee, said: “The Kite Festival is wonderful, We were delighted with the numbers it attracted last year and it is a key event as we look to promote St Annes as a family resort.”

John Moxham, chairman of St Annes Chamber of Trade, said: “The festival has grown rapidly to become a great attraction. It is great for St Annes business to hear it will be bigger and better than ever this year.”

Contact Pat on 07752 310840.