A BIG thank you to all who attended the first Essex Spectacular

We share the disappointment that there was not as much hot air balloon action over the weekend as we, and some visitors, had hoped for but ballooning is a sport that requires the appropriate weather conditions, so we have been bound to follow the strict safety guidelines enforced by the balloon operators.

Had the weather been better the array of balloons lined up to fly really would have been spectacular including Thomas the Tank Engine (the largest tethering balloon), the Palletways Dragon (the biggest flying balloon), the BBC Globe balloon and the Maxwell House coffee jar balloon amongst many more shapes and a host of privateer and pleasure flight balloonists.

Unfortunately, we have no control over the British weather which deemed to keep these balloons on the ground!

However, balloons did fly from the site on Friday evening at the press launch and Saturday morning for the early passenger flights. The James Bond themed night glow and fireworks even found a window in the weather to provide a fabulous display for the many visitors who stayed until the end on Saturday.

Fortunately the show is not just about balloons and we have had many visitors commend the two cookery theatres which showcased top international, and local, chefs such as Antonio Carluccio with a full programme of demonstrations each day throughout the day all included in the ticket price. This was as well as the array of supercars on display, the relaxing bar areas (especially the Pimms Garden with its programme of free entertainment) and the great array of traders and exhibitors who braved the conditions to remain open for business.   

And we know that when balloons can't fly kites can and our stunt kite team, Close Encounters, certainly stepped up to the plate with some great flying and commentary.

We are looking forward to bringing you the Essex Spectacular again next year and have many ideas to make it bigger and better.

Many thanks indeed,

The Essex Spectacular Team 2011.
team@theessexspectacular.co.uk