50 years of modern-day hot air ballooning was celebrated at Lakeside Lodge in Pidley.

The British Balloon Museum and Library were the hosts of the celebrations on Saturday, April 27, which saw 41 hot air balloons gather on the field.

The bi-annual event is known as "Inflation Day", and see's hot air balloon enthusiasts come together and take to the skies.

The Hunts Post: The event is known as 'Inflation Day'.The event is known as 'Inflation Day'. (Image: Robin Batchelor)

Some of the balloons at the event were 50 years old, including the "Candy Twist" balloon from 1974, which can be pictured with its identical model.

The Hunts Post: The Candy Twist balloon from 1974 with its replica.The Candy Twist balloon from 1974 with its replica. (Image: Robin Batchelor)

Robin Batchelor, who is the President of the British Balloon Museum and Library, helped organise the event. 

Robin is a commercial balloon pilot with 50 years experience, and he even taught Sir Richard Branson to fly hot air balloons.

He said of the event: "This is such a unique event and it’s wonderful to see so many old balloons from our collection, some of which I flew during my career as a commercial pilot.

"I would also like to say a big thanks to David Hopkins for providing the venue and to our sponsors, LAAS International, the Aviation Enthusiasts Group.” 

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