Bristol Balloon Fiesta: Balloons take to sky on final day

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Bristol International Balloon FiestaImage source, PA
Image caption,

On Sunday morning, a mass ascent of balloons from around the world took place over the Somerset countryside

A glorious morning allowed dozens of hot air balloons to take off from Ashton Court as part of the annual Bristol Balloon Fiesta.

The fiesta, now in its 39th year, is Europe's largest balloon festival, attracting pilots and visitors from far and wide.

This year, more than 130 balloons are taking part in the four-day event.

But on Thursday and Saturday, organisers had to cancel mass ascents because of high winds.

Bristol International Balloon FiestaImage source, PA
Image caption,

Dozens of hot air balloons took to the skies on the fourth and final day of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Bristol International Balloon FiestaImage source, PA
Image caption,

The four-day event kicked-off on Thursday with the "night glow", which saw balloonists on the ground flash their burners in time to music

Balloon festivalImage source, Ben Birchall
Image caption,

This year, more than 130 balloons are taking part in the four-day event

Bristol International Balloon FiestaImage source, PA
Image caption,

Weather permitting, a second ascent is planned for Sunday evening

Bristol International Balloon FiestaImage source, PA
Image caption,

Carol Vorderman, who joined balloonists in the mass ascent, tweeted that she was "Crying with the beauty of this...."

Balloon festivalImage source, Ben Birchall
Image caption,

The fiesta, now in its 39th year, is Europe's largest balloon festival, attracting pilots and visitors from far and wide

Bristol International Balloon FiestaImage source, PA
Image caption,

The event will close for another year at 20:30 BST on Sunday

Weather permitting, a second ascent is planned for Sunday evening.

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