THOUSANDS of people took advantage of the sunny weather this weekend to enjoy a taste of Thai culture.

The annual Thai Summer Fair at Kings Park featured displays of traditional dancing and music, Muay Thai boxing and colourful costumes, and there were a host of activities for visitors to enjoy.

As well as a multitude of bustling food stands, there was traditional Thai massage, children's games and an chance to chat with some Buddhist monks.

And for anyone seeking a bit more of the same, there was also a prize draw for a return flight to Thailand itself.

Visiting the event for the first time were Craig Conroy and Sam Phillips, both 26, from Poole, although they are regulars at the similar event in their home town.

"We have friends in Thailand and so we go every year, but it is good for people to be able to get an idea of what it is like, particularly the food," said Craig.

"There is quite a good turnout today and crowd seem pretty enthusiastic about the Thai boxing and the dancing on the stage."

Other activities on Sunday included fruit carving and a chance to visit a variety of crafts stalls, with everything from traditional toys to hand woven silk goods up for grabs.

The event, which regularly attracts as many as 6,000 people over the course of the day, is organised by Bournemouth Thai Language and Culture School, and has been running now for 13 years.

Visiting from Southampton with his wife and two children was Tom Dance, who said: "We are having a great time.

"My wife particularly liked the Thai dancers, and the food has been amazing.

"It is a lovely day so I suppose there would be lots of people here anyway, but it is great to have an event like this here."