Sky high visitor numbers for Wirral's International Kite Festival (From Wirral Globe)

Sky high visitor numbers for Wirral's International Kite Festival

4:38pm Monday 13th June 2011 in News

THOUSANDS flocked to New Brighton this weekend for the ninth annual International Kite Festival.

Families of all ages descended on the coastline to watch giant teddy bears, dogs and sharks fly high over the borough.

The two-day event attracted kite fans from all around the world, taking advantage of Saturday’s strong winds.

However, Sunday’s downpours did little to deter keen enthusiasts, with many still making the effort to showcase their kites.

Wirral tourism officer Chris Higgins said: “We had a good day on Saturday and because we knew the weather forecast was not going to be great, we got as many kites in the sky as we possibly could. We had perfect flying conditions on Saturday and everyone loved the displays. There is nothing you can do when it comes to the British weather.

“Like last year, we had a really good Saturday but a poor Sunday.”

Councillor Chris Meaden, cabinet member for culture, tourism and leisure, said: “More than 10,000 people came along on the Saturday – which was a huge turnout and probably the biggest ever. There were so many kites being flown, too, as the weather conditions were perfect.

“And on the Sunday, more than 2,000 people braved the terrible wind and rain and we managed to keep flying until around 3pm.

“Everyone seemed to have a great time so thanks to everyone for their support.”