Today our balloon flight ride over Norfolk would depart from our base at Wendling. Our passengers were all located from the west of the county of Norfolk so this seemed the most convenient location. The wind had been quite brisk for most of the day coming from the northwest, however our forecasters were confident this would ease later in the day. Another consideration this evening was that Stanford battle area would be live firing so we would need to keep west of the Army training area. We started to prepare the balloon for inflation with help from a number of local children who had arrived with their parents to watch the launch. The inflation was a little ‘playful’ as the wind was still running at 11 knots, however at 6.10 p.m we were aloft and climbed out to 3,000 feet where all of Norfolk was in clear view from Kings Lynn across to Great Yarmouth. We headed overhead the village of Bradenham and on towards Saham Hills. As we approached the town of Watton we could over to Old Buckenham as a number of balloon were taking to the air from the annual festival from the airfield. If you get a chance each year a flying display is organised at the aerodrome and it is well worth a visit, a great family day out. We pass over Watton and start our decent once in Open County, the wind is now down to 5 knots. A number of stubble fields are in view and we make our approach to land. After just over an hour in the air we very gently land in the parish of Griston. The balloon is packed away and we enjoy a glass of chilled champagne savouring a lovely harvest sunset.
Thank you for a wonderful evening. The whole experience was very well organised we can honestly say that you will be seeing us again!
Frank & Sharon Skinner