THE skies above Blackwood will be filled with the spectacular sight of giant hot-air balloons on Saturday and Sunday, when the Big Balloon Festival comes to town.

The exciting event - the first of its kind staged by Caerphilly county borough council - will take place at Blackwood Showfield and promises to offer something for all the family.

People of all ages will be amazed as balloons of all shapes and sizes soar into the summer sky.

There will be two main balloon launches on each day (6am and 6 pm) as well as regular balloon tethering displays.

The festival will also offer an exciting entertainment programme including live music, a funfair, walkabout entertainers and a firework display.

Leader of the council Councillor Lindsay Whittle said: "The Big Balloon Festival is a new addition to the council's summer events programme, which also includes the hugely popular Big Cheese Festival.

"As well as attracting local people, these events draw in people from outside the area, which provides a boost to the local economy and helps put the Caerphilly county borough on the tourist map."

On-site facilities include toilets, refreshments and food court. There is limited parking on site, with more parking available at Britannica Fields, and there is disabled access, with disabled parking.

For more information contact 02920 880011.