THE skies will come alive with colour when an international festival of kites, music and dance takes off in the North-East next month.

As one of the biggest and most popular events of its kind, the International Kite Festival at the Northern Area Playing Fields, Washington, Wearside, promises a blend of entertainment on Saturday and Sunday, July 5 and 6.

The event will host leading kitemakers from China, Jap-an, Cambodia, Australia, Germany, Malaysia, the UK and the US.

Wigsley Wigs display team will be flying some of the world's largest kites, including some never seen in thiscountry before.

Closer to home, Malcolm Goodman is the official kite consultant to Sunderland City Council and each year puts together a new programme.

Not all of the action is in the air and there is a packed programme planned for the ground.

This includes Gabhru Panjab De, one of the leading Bhangra dance companies, which will be performing with 12 costumed dancers on the Saturday.

Siyaya, a group from the Makokoba Township in Bulawayo, will be among the attractions on the Sunday.

In addition, there will be one of the biggest art and craft fairs and a children's village with hours of entertainment.

Admission to the festival is free and the event runs from 11am to 5pm on both days.

For further information, contact 0191-514 1235.