THE weather may have suggested otherwise — but celebrations were taking in Bolton to mark the end of a long winter and return of the sun.

The Hindu festival Makar Sankranti — Kite Flying Day — was celebrated at the Market Place Shopping Centre on Saturday, where children were invited to make their own kites and adults found out about one biggest celebrations in the religion.

Project officer at Bolton Hindu Forum Priya Narsai-Punam said: “I just couldn’t believe the weather.

“I spoke to my mother who is India and she said all the children are flying their kites and celebrating the festival.

“We have had children coming and making their kites, while the adults have found out more about the festival.”

The festival is celebrated all over India with bright and colourful kites filling the sky.

Some tie on wishes so they are carried others write down their worries and tie it on the kite so they can let go of them.

Mrs Narsai-Punam said: “It is spiritual and it is to celebrate the return of the long days and turning away from the darkness.”

Children designed and made their own kites.

Vishal Punam , aged six from Heaton, said: “I have enjoyed making the kite and will be flying it once the weather is better.”

Nitesh Sidpura, Vice-Chairman of Bolton Hindu Forum, said: “This is part of our work in the community and show engagement with the community. The idea behind it is getting people from all backgrounds involved.”

Members of Bolton’s Interfaith Council also attended to show their support for event, with their young ambassadors who help children create their very own kites.