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Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2015

How was your experience of the 2015 Bristol Balloon Fiesta? Mass balloon ascents, night glows and parabatix attracted more than half a million people to this year's event.

Organisers say the last four days have been some of the most successful in its history, but spectators had to be turned away on Saturday night because the site was full. Is the fiesta a victim of its own success?

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Solar-powered hot air balloon makes its debut flight

First solar-powered hot air balloon gets the go ahead to make its maiden flight. Credit: ITV West Country / Richard Payne

The first solar-powered hot air balloon in the world has made its debut flight at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

Sunny weather meant the hybrid ballon could make its maiden flight this morning, to mark the city’s status as the UK’s first European Green Capital.

The balloon is partially powered by the sun and a conventional propane burner.

Constructed by Cameron Balloons in Bristol, it has been made using panels of fabric, which are specifically designed to soak in the sun’s rays.

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