Kite festival flying into town this summer

A celebration boasting kite displays and retro cars will return this summer – and it is expected to attract tens of thousands of people.

The Bedford Kite and Motoring Festival, a free biennial event, will take place on 21 and 22 June across Russell Park, The Embankment and Mill Meadows.

Adrian Grubb, one of the organisers, believes up to 40,000 people could flock to the town and the 300 cars on show will highlight "quality over quantity."

Running from 10:00 until 16:00 BST, it will also feature live music, boat races and cruises on the river.

"This festival embodies Bedford borough's commitment to bringing people together through shared passions," said Andrea Spice, Bedford Borough Council's Conservative portfolio holder for economic growth, planning and prosperity.

"From awe-inspiring kites to lovingly preserved vehicles, every element celebrates creativity and heritage."

The two-day event will feature professional kite displays.

Mr Grubb said the classic car show had become a "festival of motoring".

"We've been careful with what we've picked, we're very choosey, we want quality over quantity", he added.

Elsewhere on the river will be the Sue Ryder Dragon Boat Race, which will see more than 20 crews battle it out on the water.

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