Giant insects, a Chinese dragon, a killer whale, an octopus with flying tentacles and even a pair of legs in stockings and suspenders fluttered above the resort yesterday.

And kite designer Andrew Beale made sure the Dorset Echo was flying high with a special creation incorporating our logo.

Enthusiasts from as far afield as Europe and America flocked to Weymouth to take part in the festival, which also marks the official start of the resort's holiday season.

The Mayor of Weymouth and Portland Councillor Joy Stanley performed an opening ceremony before the displays and competitions began. Prizes were on offer for classes such as best kite, the altitude kite sprint challenge and synchronised displays.

Spectators were also enthralled by Rokkaku, the art of Japanese kite fighting.

Families browsed round kite stalls, fairground rides and enjoyed musical displays.

Young kite fans got off to a flying start with a free children's kite workshop held by pupils from All Saints School in Weymouth as part of their community service.

Illuminated night kite flying and a stunning fireworks display rounded off the day's entertainment.

The kite festival continues today and is organised by Weymouth and Portland Borough Council with the Kite Society of Great Britain.

Steve Davies, the council's promotions and events manager, said: "This event appeals to families of all ages.

"The conditions were almost perfect for kite flying and the turnout so far has exceeded expectations."