Rain stops mass ascent at Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A combination of wind and rain stopped Saturday's mass ascent at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

On Friday morning 81 balloons managed to get away from the Ashton Court site but flights on Thursday and Friday evening were cancelled.

Fiesta organisers say they were hoping for a break in the weather for Saturday evening's lift off.

The four-day event, which is in its 32nd year, is celebrating 50 years of modern ballooning.

Road closures

The Clifton Suspension Bridge will be closed to vehicles and pedestrians from 1800 BST on Saturday until 0200 BST the next day.

Several roads in the area will also be closed at certain times. Two special bus services will run from the city centre to the site.

People attending are being encouraged to get the bus, walk or cycle.

Travel details are on the Bristol City Council and Bristol International Balloon Fiesta websites.

The festival ends on Sunday.