This is the dramatic moment villagers launched a homemade rocket - only for it to explode mid-flight.

Footage shows excited locals using torches to light up the disc-shaped contraption while other festival-goers spun it around like a top on a platform during the Rocket Festival in Kalasin province, northeast Thailand, on May 21.

They watched as the rocket took flight in a cloud of smoke, but fled in a panic when the explosives burst into a shower of sparks.

No one was harmed from the falling debris at the Buddhist festival, which was being held to mark the start of the annual rainy season.

Governor Supasit said: 'The festival aims to promote the local traditions and heritage among the residents, as well as boost tourism in the region to stimulate economic growth.

'We encourage the community to always be engaged in these events, and for people to use their leisure time in meaningful and productive ways.

'The festival also provided an opportunity for government agencies and local residents to collaborate and work together.'

Sawaeng Uttarak, mayor of the Kutwa locality, said: 'The collaboration between the Kutwa municipality, the Kalasin Provincial Office, and various related organisations were instrumental in organising the two-day festival.'

Thailand's Rocket Festival is held annually to honour Phaya Thaen, the Buddhist deity of rainmaking, as farmers and villagers pray for rain for a bountiful harvest. They believe the rockets will reach the clouds and help to stimulate impending monsoon downpours, which last until October or November.

Authorities also hope to pass down the decades-long tradition by organising spectacular shows that will fire the imaginations of younger residents.