Your guide to hot air balloon carnival

About 20 balloons took flight at last year's event

More than 20 hot air balloons are set to appear at a two-day event this weekend.

The Oswestry Balloon Carnival is to take place in Cae Glas Park in the town on Saturday and Sunday.

Organisers have advised the public, however, that the balloons' flight is "very weather dependent" and for updates, people should follow the carnival's social media pages.

Admission is free, but those attending have been encouraged to consider a voluntary £2 donation to support Nightingale House Hospice, which provides specialist palliative care in parts of Wales and Shropshire. The family-friendly event is organised by the hospice, Oswestry Town Council and Oswestry BID (Business Improvement District).

What is happening and when?

Balloon launches are planned to take place from 06:00 and 18:00 BST on Saturday, and 06:00 BST on Sunday.

The event is due to finish at 21:30 BST on Saturday and 19:30 BST on Sunday.

Hot air balloons typically do not fly during the day, especially in the summer, because of "thermals and unstable air", organisers say.

Thermals, which are "columns of rising warm air caused by the sun heating the ground, make it difficult for pilots to control the balloon's altitude and direction".

The "night-glow" is due to be held on Saturday at 21:00 BST and last for about half an hour, subject to conditions.

No flights are available to buy.

Entertainment includes dance and choir performances, while around the field, activities include, on both days, circus workshops and a Punch and Judy show.

There will be a Saturday evening initiative in the dark, subject to weather conditions

Will the weather affect plans?

While dry weather has been forecast for both days, balloons are only operational in approved weather conditions.

The event flight director will give updates on flight conditions and balloon activity.

There will be information on social media and organisers have encouraged people to follow these rather than getting in touch directly.

Up above the streets and houses...

How do I get there?

A park and ride service will run from Oswestry Showground, with parking costing £3 per car.

The service will open at 10:00 BST. The first bus is to leave at 10:30, with buses running every half an hour. There will be a drop off/pick up point at Memorial Hall.

The last bus leaves Memorial Hall at 22:30.

The carnival's website also lists options including town centre parking and bus and train timetables.

Entrances are Main Park Gates (Church Street), Willow Street and Welsh Wall Ramp.

Exits are Main Gates, Willow Street, Welsh Walls (ramp only) or St Davids.

Organisers said some transport services may be limited.

The carnival will take place in Cae Glas Park

Where will I find help?

Volunteers will be based around Cae Glas Park to help with inquiries.

Carnival security and fire safety is being supplied. Anyone with issues is asked to go to the hospice stall by the park memorial gates or park green hut next to the playground.

Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a lead. Owners are asked to be mindful of their pet when balloon activity is happening as they could be startled by burners.

There will be taps to keep dogs hydrated.