Flying High in Brighton

Over 15, 000 people enjoyed this annual free festival at Stammer Park on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st July organised and run by the Brighton Kite Flyers.

There were displays by kite flyers from all over the UK and free workshops where over 300 children made their own kites which were flown alongside the hundreds in the sky. The bouncy castle and fire engine were as popular as ever.

There was also a display of birds of prey and an array of kite retailers selling their wares. It was excellent flying weather and a perfect day for novice kite flyers to practice their new skills.

The huge bear floating in the sky (pictured) belongs to Brighton Kite Flyers and is used to promote their club. Commissioned by New Zealander Peter Lynn, it cost £2,500! The small black bird in the picture is made of silk and is beautifully hand painted. It only cost £2, but you would have to go to Bali to get one!

The group was founded in 1979 and now has over 140 members with interests in all the varying aspects of kite flying. For membership enquiries and further information please phone 01273 582309 or email corinne @ hannesseys.co.uk.

Going Underground

Moulsecomb Subway is safe at last ! A very special resident opened the subway that connects North Moulsecoomb, Coldean and Wild Park on Wednesday 7th of August.

Mrs Madge Tucker (or Mrs "T" to her friends) is the oldest resident of North Moulsecoomb and was delighted to open a subway that she can remember being built but as she told the Phoenix "I have not felt safe using the subway for many years."

Over 80 residents turned out to see their beautiful handiwork of bright murals depicting underwater scenes, aliens, planets, signed hand prints and a special wall for tagging all of which covers years of ugly graffiti and filth.

As well as the sub-way being repainted new security lighting and railings were installed. The Neighbourhood Wardens will check the subway for dumped rubbish and vehicles three times a week. Over 90 local children have been involved in workshops designing the mural with the help of the North Moulsecoomb Placemaking Group and supervised by a local artist Chris Lowe from Hillside. "Thank you to everyone from Moulsecoomb who has taken part, I now feel safe to walk out on my own." said Mrs T.