A CROWD of thousands is expected for Royston’s Charity Kite Festival held on Therfield Heath this Sunday.

The event, organised by the Rotary Club of Royston, has raised in excess of �40,000 for local and national charities over the past 10 years.

Neil Heywood, president of the organisation, said: “The kite festival has always been a spectacular event as well as raising so much for charity.

“Even after 10 years we are still as excited as ever over organising an event which has become part of the tapestry of Royston.”

“We aim to make it an entertaining occasion, but the bottom line is to raise money.”

The Multiple Sclerosis Trust is the main charity benefiting from this year’s event and will be given the proceeds from the gate.

Other charities supported at the event include Cancer Care and Research, Home-Start and aid to rid children throughout the world of polio.

BBC Radio Cambridgeshire presenter Andie Harper will open the event and more than 60 stalls will run activities around the main arena.

Displays will include Indian Kite Flying, the Royston Power Kiters, and a Teddy Bear Parachute Drop.

Mr Heywood is looking forward to the event but has two concerns.

“All we need is a good crowd and, obviously, kite-flying weather,” he said.

The Rotary Club of Royston Charity Kite Festival will begin at 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Entry is adults (14 and over) �2 and children free. There is free car parking.