A group of Welsh Scouts had an unexpected adventure during their camping trip near Bristol when they were called upon to assist in landing a hot air balloon. The 1st Beddau Scout Group had just arrived at their campsite in Tockington when pilot Peter De Herdt invited them to help deflate his balloon, which was part of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.
The Scouts, aged between 11 and 14, used a rope to help guide the balloon down safely after a 50-minute flight from the Ashton Court Estate. This unique experience not only provided them with a memorable moment but also introduced them to the world of hot air ballooning, something they rarely encounter in their mountainous home.
Helen Williams, the group’s treasurer, noted that for many boys, this was their first camping experience away from home, making the balloon landing even more special. Scout leader Matthew Bailey described the event as a fantastic start to their week-long trip, highlighting the enthusiasm of the boys as they engaged with the ballooning process.
The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, now in its 48th year, attracts balloonists from around the globe, making this interaction a remarkable highlight for the Scouts. The pilot expressed his joy in involving the boys, stating it not only eased the landing process but also created lasting memories for the young campers.
Source: LBC News
