Thousands attend balloon festival night launch

Thousands of people turned out for a night launch ahead of Telford's Balloon Festival this weekend.

The Night Glow event in Telford town park also included live music and activities for families, including an appearance by Mr Motivator.

More entertainment is planned around the QEII Arena on Saturday and Sunday, although a jump by the Wings Parachute Display Team had to be called off on Saturday, because of the wet weather.

There are due to be more balloon launches on Saturday and Sunday.

Friday's Night Glow was at ticketed event, but the festival is free to enter on Saturday and Sunday.

Last year 50,000 people attended and this year the festival will be open from 12:00 BST until 19:00 BST on both days.

Saturday is due to feature a stunt display team, tethered balloon demonstrations, more live music, circus workshops and stalls.

On Sunday the parachute display team is due return and there will also be a carnival parade.

The evening balloon launches are due to take place on both Saturday and Sunday at 06:00 BST and 18:00 BST.

The council warned these would be weather dependent however, with final confirmation of the launches being given 10 minutes before they are due to go ahead.

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