Thousands flocked to see Ladyboys, Thai boxing and sample delicious treats from the Orient at a jam-packed festival yesterday.

Hook Road Arena hosted its annual celebration of all things Thai, which attracted the crowds to enjoy the sensational flavours of traditional Thai food and colourful, entertaining cultural performances.

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Visitors experienced traditional Thai massages and spas, authentic Thai food, world-class performances from the Thai dance group, a beautiful ladyboys show, country music from Loong Thung, British music and dance shows and a Thai boxing demonstration and competition.

There were also plenty of activities to keep the youngsters entertained including face-painting and a giant slide.

Susie Chuicharoen, one of the organisers of the festival, said: "It was a wonderful, lovely, beautiful day.

"The Thai dancing and boxing was popular.  And everyone loves the Ladyboys - mostly men.  They are so beautiful."

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She said the Hook Road event is likely to return in two years' time, but that a smaller version of the festival is in the pipeline for next year, to be held in Epsom's marketplace.

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