THE SKIES over Lordshill will be filled with hundreds of multi-coloured kites when the ninth annual Southampton Kite Festival opens.

Round, rectangular and regular kites will be joined by more exotic varieties during the weekend of June 19 and 20.

Solent Kite Flyers expect more than 10,000 people at Lordshill Sports Ground during the festival.

Even teddy bears can join the fun. They are invited to be lifted by kite into the air, before being parachuted to the ground. All participating soft toys and their owners will be given a certificate as proof of their bravery.

Other attractions will include national kite flying competitions, the opportunity to build your own kite, trade and craft stands, a traditional funfair and night kite flying.

Michael Lowe of the Solent Kite Flyers, said: "It will again be bigger and better than previous years. There's a greater emphasis on different types of kites and flying displays, kite competitions and general activities around the festival site.

"There will also be international guests flying kites and giving displays from Australia, France and Holland. The festival site has plenty of open space available for public flying."

It is open from 10am until 5.30pm each day, with night flying on Saturday. Ring 023 8077 0788 for details.