Footage shows colourful loaves of bread being made for a Buddhist festival in Thailand today (October 30).

Bakers have made the treats to replace baskets that are floated on rivers and lakes each year to mark the Loy Krathong festival.

Ploynuan Chatapiwat, 44, said she cooked them because they are biodegradable and more environmentally friendly than foam creations normally made.

They include bright animal and cartoon character designs that locals can buy to join in with the festivities.

Ploynuan said: ''It will be better if we float the bread instead of the floral baskets. They will not harm the environment.''

The annual celebration honouring the Buddhist goddess of water sees millions of people float 'Krathong' baskets to bring good luck for the year ahead.

Loy Krathong, also spelt Loi Krathong, is said to have started in the 12th century in the ancient Thai kingdom.

Meaning ''to float a basket," it follows the Buddhist belief of paying respect to water spirits.

Since the last century, it has been celebrated annually throughout the Kingdom of Thailand and neighbouring countries.

The festival takes place full moon in the evening with a full moon in the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar.

The exact date changes according to the moon and calendar but this year is on the same day as Halloween.