Bristol Balloon Fiesta: City's largest multi-site launch

The balloons were launched from 06:30 BST on Wednesday

Dozens of hot air balloons have taken to the skies from five locations in Bristol in the largest multi-site launch in the city.

The launch is part of Fiesta Fortnight, organised after the annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta was cancelled due to the pandemic.

About 40 balloons launched from around 06:30 BST, with locations kept under wraps to prevent crowds from gathering.

Organisers said it was the first time it had launched from so many locations.

The balloons launched from Queen Square, Bridge Learning Campus in Hartcliffe, Merchant's Academy in Withywood, Hanham Common and Canford Park in Westbury-on-Trym.

The statue of William III in Queen Square was surrounded by the balloons on take off

Fiesta Fortnight is taking place instead of the annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

The balloons are becoming a familiar sight as Fiesta Fortnight enters its second week

Chris Allcock, chairman of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, said: "Today was a rather historic day in fiesta history.

"It was the first time ever that we've performed simultaneous mass ascents across multiple city-wide locations.

"This morning we flew from five locations... each of which had been nominated by members of the public through a public outreach campaign earlier this year.

"It was amazing to bring joy to so many people."

• Hot air balloons launched from secret location

• Balloon flypast for socially distanced fiesta

Pilots check the rigging inside the hot air balloon canopy as they prepare to take off

Eight balloons took off from Queen Square

The launch included some special shapes and characters including Stuart the Minion

Covid-19 prevented the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta being held last year, with organisers choosing to do a balloon flypast instead.

This year it is running a Fiesta Fortnight, with the first ascent held last week from the northern suburb of Filton, for the first time in the event's history.

There were more than 700 applications from the public to take off from their favourite locations, as well as some special requests from people hit hard by the pandemic who were unable to attend due to illness or who do not normally see hot air balloons in their communities.

Up, up and away: 40 balloons were launched earlier

Fiesta Fortnight runs until Sunday 15 August

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