World first for Welshpool!

At first glance, it may seem like a load of hot air, but Welshpool really does look set to host a world first this summer.

A two-day weather balloon fiesta will be held at the Green Dragon Inn, Buttington, on August 2 and 3, where people will be able to release balloons fitted with equipment to take pictures of the world below.

Event co-ordinator Chris Hillcox claims it is the first event of its kind and says it has already attracted interest from across Europe.

 “Launching a weather balloon is a fantastic team experience. It teaches you a lot about photography, the design process, and the nature of the near space environment,” said Mr Hillcox.

“By co-ordinating the launch of a number of balloons at the same time it will hopefully be an interesting spectacle to the residents and visitors to Welshpool in the height of the summer.”

Teams will launch helium-filled latex balloons which are designed to burst about 18 miles (30km) above the earth. The camera and trackers will then fall to back to Earth supported by a parachute.

Interested? Contact Mr Hillcox on 07783 903096.