THE Eggardon Kite Festival soared to the heights of wish fulfilment for both organisers and participants at the weekend – with more people than ever coming to enjoy perfect flying conditions.

Organiser Baffy Turner said: “It’s gone really well, the weather has been perfect. We’ve had it all – wind, sun and people, what more could you ask for?

“It’s definitely been the biggest turn out yet, that’s the power of the internet. It’s been the first time this year that we have had a web page. We had around 3,000 people come along.

“I have to start organising the festival in March as Dieppe International Kite Festival is on at the same time and I have to be careful not to lose everyone to that, also Bristol was only last week so we have to fit it in the kite calendar.”

There was plenty to do for everyone – a kite workshop where children could make and decorate their own kites, a bar, hog roast, burgers, pizza, teas and ice cream. There were massive kites flying high throughout the day and hundreds of smaller ones being flown by adults and children.

There was a demonstration of synchronised kite flying with six people stood in a row flying their kites in perfect formation.

Scottish bagpipers were playing on the hill-fort during the day and crowds sat around enjoying the sun, picnics and taking in the lovely and friendly atmosphere.

Results Nearest to 800ft: 1, Tony Roe 742ft. 2, Terry Pearson 863ft.

The Wytherston Trophy for best homemade kite that flies: Michael Lowe, who also created the template for the kites at the kite workshop.

Highest kite: Fahem from Afganistan 938ft.