Bristol Balloon Fiesta makes new plan for Sunday evening

This evening's mass ascent at Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2019 has been cancelled due to high wind speeds.

The festival's organising committee and pilots met at 4pm today (Sunday, August 11) to discuss the possibility of setting the balloons off for the second time this week.

They came to the agreement it will not be possible, however, due to the potential risks from the inclement weather.

It comes as , which was only announced late this afternoon.

The cancellation comes after the festival site was closed yesterday for only the second time in the Fiesta's 41-year history, with the closure running until 10am this morning.

Balloon crews will tether a selection of balloons in the arena to give the crowds something to cheer about though, with Darth Vader set to make his final appearance of the festival.

A Fiesta spokesperson said: "Although conditions have improved, the wind has not dropped as much as we had hoped, so a mass ascent will not be possible this evening. 

"However the balloon teams are determined to put on a display so will tether in the arena until 6pm, including an appearance from the man of the moment, Darth Vader.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who have supported us over the weekend."

This evening's mass ascent was the last one scheduled to take place at this year's event, which means the ascent which took place on Thursday morning was the only one to get off the ground.

There has only been one Night Glow too, which also took place on Thursday.

Meanwhile the Met Office has just issued a yellow weather warning for the entire South West and parts of  the Midlands.

Downpours are expected between 3pm to 8pm, when lightning is also likely.

The warning for Bristol states: "Heavy showers and thunderstorms producing flooding and disruption in a few places."

Ashton Court reopened at 10am today and lots of revellers turned out in their waterproofs hoping to make the best of the poor weather.

A Met Office spokesperson said: Some flooding of a few homes and businesses likely, leading to some damage to buildings or structures

"Possibly some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes.

Bristol Balloon Fiesta closes due to bad weather

"There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus

"Delays to train services are possible

"Some short term loss of power and other services is possible."