A Shropshire hot air balloon company will bring the history of Stonehenge to life by recreating the taking of first aerial photographs of the landmark 100 years on.

Telford-based Virgin Balloon Flights is planning to fly a tethered balloon over the famous stone circle during an event organised by English Heritage to celebrate the centenary of aerial archaeology.

This means some lucky visitors to Stonehenge on Saturday and Sunday (August 5 and 6), will be able to capture their own versions of the images Lieutenant Phillip Henry Sharpe, of the Royal Engineers’ Balloon Section, took in 1906.

Although photographs had been taken from the air as early as the 1850s particularly for military reconnaissance, Sharpe’s two photographs were the first known of any British archaeological site.

The pictures demonstrated how even slight earthworks could be picked out from aerial photos and helped realise the potential of using them for archaeological purposes.

Peter Horne, Head of Aerial Investigation at English Heritage, said: “Today, aerial survey is now one of the most important tools for the discovery of archaeological sites in this country.

“Experts study new pictures as well as old ones, using interpretation, mapping and analysis skills to draw out valuable information hidden in these photo sources. As a result of their study, we discover more about the past and gain a greater insight into the changes that have taken place. “

Weather permitting; the tethered balloon will take winners of prize draws up throughout the two days. It is hoped a free flight out over the Wiltshire countryside will take place on the Saturday evening.

Flying the 3-man Virgin balloon will be 42-year-old pilot Richard Ashford who has 12 years flying experience.

“This is an amazing opportunity. How many people can say they have flown out of Stonehenge? I really can’t wait,” he said.
Alex Ferguson, Virgin Balloon Flights PR & Marketing Manager, said: “We are delighted to be involved in recreating such an important event at Stonehenge. It is fantastic to be working with English Heritage and we are looking forward to an excellent weekend.”

The Much is Discovered – 100 Years of Aerial Archaeology Exhibition is taking place at Stonehenge from now until Monday, August 7.

Virgin Balloon Flights fly passengers from launch sites in Telford, Shrewsbury and Ludlow. For more information or to book a flight visit www.virginballoonflights.co.uk or call 0870 444 2768.

For press enquires please call PR & Marketing Account Manager Alex Ferguson on 01952 212760 or email alexf@virginballoonflights.co.uk