This was a lovely summer evening for our balloon ride over Peterborough. We greeted our passengers on the Ken Stimpson plying field behind Werrington sports centre. Most people were quite local; however we had the pleasure of flying the Grace family from Natal in South Africa who were enjoying a three week vacation in the UK. This adventure proved to be a perfect finale to the end of their holiday. The atmosphere on launch site was buzzing. As a large number of friends and family had turned out to watch and follow. The younger members really enjoyed helping the ground crew prepare the equipment for launch.
We were airborne at 7.30 p.m. amid shouts and cheers from our enthusiastic on lookers. Climbing out gently to 3,000 feet a spectacular view greeted us. The visibility was a good thirty five miles, so all four counties were in view. We soon spotted another hot air balloon high above us to the south. A quick radio call identified it was a charismatic gentleman by the name of Ian Warrington flying a small two man craft. I’m up at 12,000 feet at 25 knots coming down to join you replied Ian. It’s always a bonus to be flying along side another balloon as it provides some great photo opportunities. After an hour we started to look for somewhere to land. Fortunately to surface wind speed had dropped to a gentle 2 M.P.H. flow and we landed on a farm track. All the kit was quickly packed away and we were joined by Ian Warrington and their crew. So we all toasted the flight watching a stunning Fenland sunset and listening to Ian’s stories of ‘daring do’.
Dear Breckland Balloons
Just thought I’d drop you a quick email to thank you for our whole ballooning experience yesterday in Peterborough. I originally brought it as a present for Chrissy and I was only accompanying her so as she wasn’t alone. If I’m honest, I was a little worried about being 2500 ft up in a wicker basket, but absolutely loved it!! Chrissy was over the moon and we both found the evening really enjoyable. Looks like you’ll be getting a few more bookings in the future as the rest of the family are now on about doing it. Obviously, me and Chrissy will HAVE to come just to show them the ropes!! Thanks again
Stuart Adinall