Two things Bristol is synonymous with combined in spectacular fashion this morning (Tuesday, September 29).
A Wallace & Gromit themed hot air balloon took flight for the first time ever from the Lloyds Amphitheatre, creating a stunning spectacle for those who were lucky enough to see it soar above the city.
The bright orange balloon was the brainchild of Exclusive Ballooning, who collaborated with Aardman on the design - and there's a very poignant reason behind it.
It will be flown all over the world to raise funds for Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, the dedicated charity for Bristol Children’s Hospital.
Andrew Holly, director of Exclusive Ballooning, wanted to create a hot air balloon for the charity after his daughter Roma was treated at Bristol Children’s Hospital in 2018.
He said: "My wife and I were at Bristol Children’s Hospital in 2018 with our eight day old daughter Roma after she developed some breathing issues.
"Fortunately, all was well and Roma is already crazy about hot air balloons, rockets and Gromit so she really is going to love this!
"Whilst in the hospital overnight, I was inspired by the fantastic balloon mural that adorns the corridors and I realised we could really help The Grand Appeal raise some serious funds.
"The charity does such crucial work valued by so many people at difficult times, it was a no brainer.
"We decided we would privately sponsor the balloon in full and it was built in complete secrecy."
Andrew said he will be working with Aardman and The Grand Appeal over the coming years to raise "as much money and awareness as we can for the charity, directly benefitting the families of Bristol".
It took nine months to build the balloon which is made from a special lightweight fabric material, making it one of the lightest special shape balloons in the world.
Since 1995 The Appeal has raised more than £70 million to fund lifesaving medical equipment, pioneering research, three family accommodation houses, 20 specialist support staff and a programme of art, music and play.
Helen Haskell of Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal added: "What a fantastic way to recognise our 25-year partnership with Aardman by launching this unique feat of engineering thanks to Exclusive Ballooning.
"We are ‘over the moon’ that they have been able to turn our fun-loving duo’s contraption into this iconic hot air balloon."
