Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2023: Friday morning Hot air balloons fill the sky

Watch the balloons take off this morning.

Hot air balloons are taking off from Ashton Court Estate this morning after the first planned early morning mass ascent of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta was given the green light.

The first morning ascent of the fiesta, which is running now until Sunday 13 August, took off just after 6am with organisers saying people should get their "eyes to the skies."

It comes after Thursday night's mass ascent had to be cancelled due to strong winds. But organisers said that conditions on Friday morning were suitable for the pilots at the event.

Confirming the ascent on social media organisers said: "GOOD morning Bristol! We are flying this morning - we'll be heading north east over the city centre towards Filton and Winterbourne. EYES TO THE SKIES!"

Balloons taking off from Ashton Court Estate. Credit: PA

The balloons travelled over the bridge. Credit: Gemma Gaman

The balloons were photographed crossing the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Last night saw the return of the famous night glow display.

Weather permitting, there are more mass ascents planned for 6pm this evening, and 6am and 6pm Saturday and Sunday as well as another night glow at 9pm on Saturday.