A bumper group of Virgin balloons could come together for a spectacular fiesta annually after an airborne gathering in the Peak District was hailed a huge success.

Five huge red balloons from the Virgin Balloon Flights fleet took off from Bakewell Showground to celebrate pilot Martin Collinson’s 40th birthday last month.

A large crowd of spectators enjoyed an amazing sight as the balloons, filled with more than 60 lucky passengers, soared away over the horizon. While in the air sights such as Chatsworth Hall, Matlock and Chesterfield came into view.

With Martin’s balloon acting as the hare, the other balloons flown by pilots Kenneth Karlstrom, Mark ‘Nobby’ Simmons, Max Duncomb and Mark Shemilt followed closely behind sailing on the wind for around 10 miles. Two even managed to land in the same field at South Wingfield.

Martin, who flies for VBF in Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Cambridgeshire, described it as the ‘best birthday party ever’ and said there were now plans to repeat the event somewhere else each year from now on.

“It all went really smoothly. It was great to meet all the passengers who were also having a special time because there was a real birthday atmosphere,” he said.

“The five Virgin balloons were an amazing sight soaring over the horizon together and three of us landed in the same field which is pretty good after 10 miles.

“A few of the other pilots are planning to organise a similar event annually in the future. It is likely to be at a different place each time. I think it’s an excellent idea as its great to meet up and fly with the other Virgin pilots and it gives our passengers the opportunity to experience the wonder of a balloon fiesta.”

The Bakewell fiesta on July 23 featured a range of different sized balloons with the largest being Max Duncomb’s Lindstrand 400 which takes 400,000 cubic ft of air to fill and can carry up to 19 passengers in the basket. Other multi-coloured balloons also joined the party, adding to the spectacle.

After landing and before being whisked back to the launch site passengers enjoyed a traditional champagne toast as the sun set over Derbyshire and on an excellent day.

“I’ve never organised anything like that before and it was just wonderful. Thanks to everyone who was there and helped make it so memorable,” Martin added.

To buy a flight and experience the trip of a lifetime click here 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