Hot air balloons fly in mass ascent ahead of fiesta

A fleet of hot air balloons took to the sky over Bristol at dawn ahead of this year's Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

A group of pilots gathered on College Green to tether several balloons while eagerly awaiting the decision from experts to confirm whether they could fly.

The weather conditions allowed for the mass ascent and residents were able to see a preview of what is in store over the coming weeks.

The world-famous fiesta will return to Ashton Court Estate from 8-10 August to celebrate the city and its links to hot air ballooning.

More than 100 hot air balloons are expected to take part in this year's mass ascents, which happen at dusk and dawn throughout the fiesta.

Organisers have teased a stacked programme which includes stunt displays, opportunities to meet some of the pilots and a new immersive attraction where visitors can walk inside a cold-inflated balloon.

The nightglow is also set to return on the Friday and Saturday night of the fiesta.

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