13 August 2010 Last updated at 16:53 ET

Bristol balloon fiesta chance of ascent 'encouraging'

The BBC's John Maguire took to the skies to experience the mass ascent

Pilots at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta were hoping for a turn in the weather after Friday evening's mass ascent was cancelled.

Rain and wind at the Ashton Court site made flying conditions too treacherous.

Thursday evening's flight was also called off, although more than 50,000 people watched the renowned night glow.

On Friday morning, 81 balloons took off in the first mass ascent of the fiesta. Organisers said the rest of the weekend looked "encouraging".

Road closures

The first of the balloons took off at about 0630 BST

• In pictures: Balloon Fiesta Friday
• Your photos of the event

The Clifton Suspension Bridge will be closed to vehicles and pedestrians from 1800 BST on Saturday until 0200 BST the next day.

Several roads in the area will also be closed at certain times. Two special bus services will run from the city centre to the site.

People attending are being encouraged to get the bus, walk or cycle.

The four-day event, which is in its 32nd year, is celebrating 50 years of modern ballooning. It is also celebrating 100 years of aviation at Filton and the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

Teams from Dubai, the United States, France and Switzerland are among those expected to take part.

Travel details are on the Bristol City Council and Bristol International Balloon Fiesta websites.

The festival ends on Sunday.