Disappointment as hot air balloons cancelled on first day of festival

Strong winds have caused disappointment on the first day of the highly anticipated Swindon Balloon Festival.

The town’s first balloon festival for many years started on Friday afternoon at Lydiard Park and will last until Saturday night.

Visitors had been expecting hot air balloon ascents on both evenings, with a range of different balloons set to take to the skies.

But the first night of the festival has been dealt a blow after organisers confirmed strong winds meant there would be no balloon ascents until Saturday.

There will however be other activities on Friday night including fireworks and a basket glow.

Balloon baskets at the festival (Image: Newsquest)

Suggested reading

A spokesperson for the festival said: “The balloon director and the pilots have had their evening meeting and due to the strong winds there will be no balloon ascents tonight.

“We are going to have a basket glow around 9.45pm and the fireworks will still be taking place at 10.15pm.

“We thank you for your attendance, but pilot safety along with festival attendees safety is our top priority.

“We understand this is disappointing for all, but we hope that the other arena acts will keep you entertained.”

Many who have made their way to the festival were left disappointed by the situation, but agreed that the decision was inevitable due to the weather.