The balloon launch was from the historic market town of Stamford in Lincolnshire. Gaining height a picture post card scene was on display. A light dusting of snow for as far as the eye could see turned the landscape of Rutland, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire into a breathtaking vista. To the east the great reservoir of Rutland water covering over 3,000 acres was well defined. With Upper Hambleton in the centre and the villages of Manton Empingham and Whitwell nestling on the shorelines. The whole area of Rutland is well worth a visit. The wildlife is exceptional and if you’re feeling fit you can hire a bicycle and ride round the whole reservoir, its about 25 miles !!!
The balloon flew on heading south over the picturesque villages of Kings Cliffe, Blatherwycke and Apethorpe. The balloon then started its descent with the medieval church in the village of Fotheringhay in clear view. Finally landing close to the market town of Oundle.