THE skies above Tavistock will be a colourful sight when the town's balloon fiesta takes off in September.

The popular festival will again fill the air above Crowndale with spectacular sights.

Organised by Tavistock's Round Table and Lions Club, the event will be sponsored by Robert Wiseman Dairies and Tavistock Town Council.

Duncan Carrick, Wiseman's senior sales manager for the area, said: 'We are delighted to be involved with the Westcountry Balloon Fiesta once again in Tavistock, as our sponsorship of the event not only supports the West Country Wiseman brand and our customers, but it also allows us to support the community and help raise money for local charities.

'Our own "black and white" balloon with the registration G-OMOO was at the fiesta last year and we are pleased to say that it will be flying again this year.'

Steve Grummitt, press officer for the fiesta, said: 'Members of the Lions Club and Round Table are delighted that with the involvement of Robert Wiseman Dairies, the fiesta is again in the Tavistock calendar as it proved to be so popular last year.'

Mr Grummitt said the event raised a considerable amount of money for local good causes and the organisations hoped to generate similar successes this year.

The fiesta is on Saturday, September 3 and Sunday, September 4 at Crowndale, with the gates opening at 3pm on both days.

Balloon ascents will start at 5pm to 5.30pm each day. On the Saturday only, at dusk, there will be a night glow when a number of tethered balloons light their burners in time with music, which gives the impression of huge light bulbs flickering on and off.

Mr Grummitt said: 'This has always been one of the most popular parts of the fiesta and usually attracts thousands of people'.

Spaces can be booked in advance on 01404 823102 or by visiting http://www.ballooning.co.uk">www.ballooning.co.uk For more details visit http://www.westcountryballoons.com">www.westcountryballoons.com