CHILDREN in Staple Hill had a foretaste of this year’s Bristol International Balloon Fiesta when one of the event’s special shapes was inflated on their school field.
Bella the balloon dog was brought to the Tynings Primary School in July as part of the fiesta’s first Schools Tether Roadshow.
Around 400 schools in the Bristol area registered an interest in a visit from a balloon and pilot in the run-up to the fiesta, with eight picked out.
Head teacher Lois Haydon said: “We were extremely excited to be one of the chosen few.
“The balloon team arrived on site and laid the balloon out, with a little help from a group of children. It was then inflated.
“The children watched with awe as Bella the balloon dog appeared right before their eyes.
“We would like to thank the Balloon Fiesta team for giving us this opportunity, as many of our children have never seen a hot air balloon this closely before.”
As the balloon was deflated children were invited to walk on it to help get all of the air out.
Mrs Haydon said: “It was a magnificent event – the children really loved it from start to finish!”
The roadshow, part of the fiesta’s community programme, also gave the children the opportunity to meet the pilots and their teams and understand the science behind ballooning.
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta executive director Ben Hardy said: “Bringing balloons directly into school playgrounds not only provides a great learning opportunity but also creates special memories that will last forever.
“We’re looking forward to inspiring the next generation of Fiesta-goers, and maybe even future pilots!”
Every school that applied for the scheme was given an activity pack to help teach about and celebrate the city’s connection to hot air balloons.
This year’s Bristol International Balloon Fiesta takes place from August 8 to 10 at Ashton Court.
For more information visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk.