Royston Rotary Club’s annual Kite Festival attracted big crowds to the Heath on Sunday, after cloudy skies and high winds in the morning created problems for kite fliers and exhibitors.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Y3wxTVkhy0&feature=youtu.be

A strong west wind buffeted marquees and tents, and a few stall-holders had to pack up their wares as gazebos threatened to fly away.

Royston Crow: The windy conditions were ideal for a kite festival. PICTURE: Clive Porter.The windy conditions were ideal for a kite festival. PICTURE: Clive Porter. (Image: Archant)

But by mid-morning the winds slackened and the sun came out.

Royston Crow: Georgina Campbell assists her daughter, Imogen to construct her own kite at the kite workshop. PICTURE: Clive Porter.Georgina Campbell assists her daughter, Imogen to construct her own kite at the kite workshop. PICTURE: Clive Porter. (Image: Archant)

By lunchtime and the official opening by Royston’s Mayor Sarah Dingley and North Herts District Council vice-chair Alan Millard, the Heath was crowded with picnicking families enjoying the show and the flying programme went ahead, including the ever popular Teddy Bear Drop.

Royston Crow: A ghostly apparition over Royston. PICTURE: Clive Porter.A ghostly apparition over Royston. PICTURE: Clive Porter. (Image: Archant)

Traders reported brisk business, and there were queues at the ice-cream vans and burger stands. The club’s famous tombola sold out long before the event closed.

Royston Crow: The kite festival was a great spectacle. PICTURE: Clive Porter.The kite festival was a great spectacle. PICTURE: Clive Porter. (Image: Archant)

Among others, the main charity to benefit this year is Herts Air Ambulance.

Royston Crow: Many people came down to the Heath to enjoy the day. PICTURE: Clive Porter.Many people came down to the Heath to enjoy the day. PICTURE: Clive Porter. (Image: Archant)

Event manager Jonathan Berks said: “We’re hoping the show will clear £6,000 after expenses, so we’ll be able to make some generous charitable donations as usual.”

Royston Crow: Eight-year-old Ben Spenceley of Foxton tries his luck at the Test Your Strength stall. PICTURE: Clive PorterEight-year-old Ben Spenceley of Foxton tries his luck at the Test Your Strength stall. PICTURE: Clive Porter (Image: Archant)