HUNDREDS of Phuket families of Chinese extraction turned out today to tend the graves of their ancestors, share memories and enjoy a picnic with relatives.

Fake paper money was burned on bonfires, along with cardboard replicas of houses and other items that might be useful in the next world.

One ancestor was about to gain a chauffeur-driven stretch Mercedes Benz limousine when Phuketwan dropped by to compile a photo album.

The slopes of Rang Hill in Phuket City resounded with fireworks and the dull thud of hoes at work as families gathered at gravesides today.

Clearing of grass and weeds, along with painting and general maintenance, usually takes place just before the Songkran water festival each year.

This is a chance for children especially to connect with the concepts of continuity, tradition and extended family.

Across the hillside in Phuket City, some families could claim connections with groups at four or five sites, perhaps even more.

The Chinese originally came early to Phuket as traders and often stayed, marrying the daughters of local families. Today those marriages continue to give Phuket its heady mix of cultures and character.

Everywhere there is a spirit of generosity. Phuketwan samples fresh Chiang Mai strawberries (''much better value than from the local supermarkets'') and is offered dumplings and tasty morsels wrapped in banana leaves.

Around the hillside, yum cha breakfast restaurants are packed. But then, come Sunday mornings, they usually are, and the ancestors probably approve.