A sky full of whimsy

Bristol’s 48th International Balloon Fiesta brings a colourful collection of quirky designs back to the skies.

1. Hot air balloon crews pushing balloons into position before lifting off over Bristol. The city is the birthplace of the modern hot air balloon, dating back to 1967, when the Bristol Belle was built and flown in the area. — AP

2. Crowds watching a scarecrow-shaped hot air balloon rise during a mass launch. Over the years, many weird and wonderfully shaped balloons have graced the skies, with some becoming regular sights at balloon festivals in the UK and around the world. — Reuters

3. Workers preparing hot air balloons ahead of the mass launch. The mass ascent is scheduled twice daily, at approximately 6am and 6pm. — Reuters

4. People watching hot air balloons take to the skies. Thousands of people attended the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, europe’s largest annual balloon event. —Reuters