THE skies above the Teesdale countryside were full of some of the world's biggest and most unusual kites at the weekend.

People of all ages flocked from across the region to the hillside above High Force, near Bowlees, for the impressive display of traditional and modern kites.

The two-day kite festival, believed to be the highest held in England, was organised by staff at Raby Castle and Malcolm Goodman, who has been involved in festivals across the world including Sunderland's annual kite show.

Topping the bill at High Force was a 100m Chinese dragon kite alongside a flying cat, butterflies, a penguin and other intricate designs.

There was even an arena for kite fighting, invented in Japan in the 17th Century to calm street violence, in which competitors do all they can to be the last kite in the air.

Hundreds of families visiting the festival also took advantage of the good weather by walking along the River Tees to take in some of the breathtaking views.

Spectators enjoyed picnics on the hillside as they watched the display and dozens of youngsters found new hobbies by flying their own kites.

North-East kite historian, George Webster, guided visitors through the skilful moves and talked about the history of kites, which date back 3,000 years to when they were used for religious and ceremonial occasions.