Bristol Balloon Fiesta's first ascent cancelled

Organisers are hoping Tuesday's flight will be able to take off

Bristol Balloon Fiesta's first ascent has been cancelled due to "unfavourable" weather.

Monday's flight was part of the new city-wide "fiesta week" which will see hot air balloons popping up in local communities.

The main fiesta, which kicks off on Friday, has been reduced from four days to three amid rising costs.

A fiesta spokesperson said on Facebook: "Monday morning is not looking favourable for a safe community launch due to some unfriendly gradient winds, so we'll be shifting our excitement to Tuesday."

The Met Office is predicting wind speeds of about 30mph for Monday morning.

The authority is forecasting similar speeds for Tuesday.

Organisers have planned for a fleet of hot air balloons to pop up in local communities across the city in a series of local launches before the central arena at Ashton Court sets the stage for more than 100 hot air balloons to take flight, if weather conditions allow.

A fiesta spokesperson added: "After receiving hundreds of nominations, we’re thrilled to announce that the shortlisted launch sites include the beautiful Vassels Park, Hengrove, Elm Park, Westbury-on-Trym, and Somerdale Pavilion in Keynsham."

The 46th fiesta will still include two Night Glows on Friday and Saturday evenings.