Balloons take to the skies over Bristol as part of special Bristol Balloon Fiesta flypast

Dozens of hot air balloons have flown over Bristol as part of a special flypast marking the Bristol Balloon Fiesta.

The annual event, which usually takes place at Ashton Court, was cancelled this year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

But organisers arranged today’s flypast, which more than 40 balloonists took part in, to mark the occasion.

People across the city were urged to enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of their own homes as the balloons took to the skies.

Chris Allcock, who is chair of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, said the flypast was organised in line with the latest social distancing guidelines.

"We’re all deeply saddened that we can’t gather at Ashton Court to celebrate the 42nd Bristol International Balloon Fiesta," he said.

"But we have been working with our balloonists and the authorities to create an event which adheres to the social distancing restrictions.

"Social distancing means we absolutely cannot gather in parks or Bristol’s open spaces or invite our audiences to see the balloons take off or land, to protect our pilots and the public.

"Instead we’re asking people to give them a wave as they fly past Bristol’s communities."

Photos on social media

Did you see the balloons on Monday (August 3) morning? Send in your pictures and videos to westcountry@itv.com, or tweet us @itvwestcountry.