From an elephant to a coffee jar, a UFO to a parrot, a showcase of 30 balloons flying short “hops” at Longleat in Wiltshire kick-started Sunday morning and the last day of the Icons of the Sky event.
The wind direction which would have taken balloons over military areas meant the mass ascent couldn’t go ahead but the pilots were keen to ensure guests saw activity, said Daisy Mercedes, who has coordinated the estate’s flagship event which has been on since Friday.
Daisy said: “It is a weather dependent event which means we need calm, stable and dry conditions to fly balloons safely and safety has to be our priority.
“However, our pilots were keen to show inflation, burner techniques and different landing styles so did short hops from the top of the road in front of Longleat House to the side of the lake with a few flying a little further.
“The air display has been spectacular – yesterday we had our first Tiger Moths’ flight which was stunning and we’re all looking forward to watching that again this afternoon, as well as the Spitfire flight, helicopters, wing walkers and much more.
“We are continuing to monitor the weather for the mass ascent due at 5pm and the nightglow at 8pm, however, the forecast is good for the other scheduled events.
“We are fortunate at Longleat that even when the programmed events can’t go ahead or are restricted there is plenty of other attractions to ensure guests are entertained.”
Regular updates on weather conditions and the full programme can be found on Longleat’s website www.longleat.co.uk
Entertainment Swindon 
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