Mass ascent at Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A total of 81 balloons have taken part in the first mass ascent of the 2010 Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

Thursday night's mass launch was cancelled because of strong winds, although a handful of balloons were inflated and tethered for the public.

Forecasters said it was best to make the most of the "window of opportunity" on Friday morning as showers were expected later.

The four-day festival, which is in its 32nd year, is celebrating 50 years of modern ballooning. It is also celebrating 100 years of aviation at Filton and the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

The BBC's John Maguire took to the skies to experience the mass ascent.