Off to a flying start!

Nobody can be uncheered with a balloon....
Winnie - The -Pooh
(aka A. A. Milne)

Strathaven Balloon Festival takes place this weekend!

Had a very busy day at work but managed to get away in time to join the pilots for a welcome buffet in the Barrie Shelter, Strathaven. It was a lively atmosphere and all of them were looking forward to the weekend ahead.

The Pilots' conference takes place at 6pm and, at that stage, it seemed as if the winds were just too strong to risk flying. It was agreed that a balloon could safely be inflated if tethered, which would at least give people who had traveled to be there something to see. That was done, and those watching enjoyed the spectacle of seeing the balloon being inflated.

I headed off to enjoy a lovely meal with D, YS and E at Rissons, a restaurant which has views of the park. After we had sat down and ordered, we were delighted to see that the flying conditions had improved and at least one balloon actually flew... there may have been more in a different direction. So those who had waited around were rewarded for their patience...!

So, the balloon festival is off to a flying start! The forecast is good for tomorrow so there should be balloons flying at around 6.30 am. The 6pm evening flight is less promising,but things look good for the "Glow". Sunday looks as if flying conditions will be perfect!

All of the above is weather dependent, and things can change very quickly. If you are planning to travel a distance, bear in mind that nothing is guaranteed. It's a bit like going on safari... part of the fun is in the uncertainty....

Bring your camera, your sense of humour, and enjoy the show

Let the festival begin!