This is the spectacular moment an incredible spinning helix rocket launched more than 1,000 feet in the air at a rural festival in Thailand.

The homemade flying disc was fired into the heavens at the annual 'Rocket Festival' marking the start of the rainy season on May 21.

Footage shows villagers in Kalasin province using torches to set alight the rocket, which then spewed a thick plume of smoke as it spun and soared into the sky. It left a helix-patterned trail of smoke while rotating hundreds of feet above ground.

Spectators were heard cheering when a colourful parachute attached to the rocket unfurled upon reaching the peak of its trajectory.

They estimated the rocket reached more than 1,000ft high - with other different designed rockets from the same event or those nearby reaching above plane-cruising altitude of 35,000ft.

Local 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.