RECORD numbers turned up to enjoy this year’s Evesham Balloon Festival despite strong winds meaning no balloons were able to lift-off.

The balloon festival held on Crown Meadow over Saturday and Sunday attracted more than 15,000 people – more than ever before.

The crowds could revel in two days of entertainment which included live music, a classic car show featuring some very rare vehicles, hovercraft rides, stalls and plenty of food and drink to wash it all down with.

The adverse weather conditions meant it was unsafe for the balloons to fly, however visitors could get into the basket of the balloons and enjoy some tethered flying, in which they are lifted about ten feet while still secured to the floor by ropes.

Market Town Partnership Manager Shawn Riley said he was delighted the festival had achieved record figures and hoped the trend would continue at Evesham’s festivals this summer.

“There was so much to choose from and a lot of people came along for the day with a picnic and really enjoyed a relaxing, enjoyable day. The range of classic cars was fantastic; we had four Deloreans on site and I am told there are only five in the whole country.

“Unfortunately, we were given advice the winds could easily have blown over the balloons so we did not take any risks. But the night glow and fireworks were popular. People came from all over the country,” he said.

The success continued on Sunday when a 5k fun run organised by the Round Table, raised more than £500 for the Air Ambulance.