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Members of the public who like kite flying activities can enjoy the fun of it at Shek O Beach in the Southern District from tomorrow (December 1) onwards.

A spokesman for the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) said, "In view of the popularity of kite flying in Hong Kong, the Department has set aside part of Shek O Beach in the Southern District for the general public to enjoy the activity."

The kite flying area is next to the barbecue site at Shek O Beach, measuring about 3 500 square metres. It will be open between tomorrow and February 28, 2003 from 9 am to 5 pm daily.

The spokesman added, "Two lawn areas at Tai Po Waterfront Park have been designated for kite flying since last October. In view of the demand for more kite flying areas, the Department looked for an area on Hong Kong Island for the purpose."

"The environment of Shek O Beach was found more suitable than other leisure venues for kite flying activities."

"The beach will be closed for swimming during winter. Opening the beach to kite flying serves to utilise existing resources to enable members of the public to engage in a wider range of recreational activities."

"The Department will closely monitor the situation and identify more venues for the activity if it is well-received by members of the public."

However, members of the public are reminded to observe the following ground rules when flying kites:

- Kite flying outside the designated area is prohibited.

- Each kite shall weigh not more than 2 kg.

- Kites shall not be flown at a height of more than 60 metres above ground level.

- Kite flying is prohibited when rainstorm warning, thunderstorm warning, strong monsoon signal or typhoon cyclone warning signal No.3 or above has been issued.

- Sharpened strings such as string coated with glass powder must not be used.

- Do not try to retrieve stray kites with a broken string from the sea.

Signs and notices have been put on the beach to alert the users.

For enquiries, please call Manager (Beaches) Southern on 2555 9027.

End/Saturday, November 30, 2002

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