1. All the 'special shape' balloons have velcro openings which need to be sealed up.

These let the air out of all the different parts of the balloon, for example the tail of the dog.

This helps when deflating the balloon.

Many hands make light work

2. All balloons have a main dump valve, this also needs to be closed for inflation.

The valve allows the air to be removed from the main canopy of the balloon quickly.

This enables the crew to get packed up and down the pub faster!

A room with a view

3. The balloon starts to take shape as it's cold-inflated with a fan.

The crew are inside the balloon at this point, making sure each part inflates correctly.

A crucial point in proceedings

4. The balloon is then pressurized with hot air, 10m British Thermal Units (BTU) of it to be precise.

For comparison, an average household boiler generates just 0.6 BTU.

So imagine the energy requirements of a small village.

5. The balloon is ready for take off.

Oh, no no no no no

Even the wacky-shaped balloons are registered aircraft, and the pilot needs a commercial pilot's licence to fly one.

The only other requirements when taking to the sky in such an odd looking vehicle, according to Chris, is being careful where you land,

"You don't want to snag the tail or paw of a giant dog on a tree."

At over 3 tonnes in weight when fully inflated, that's an awful lot of dog to get angry...