THE magnificent sight of hot air balloons flying over Tavistock is set to return in September, following an announcement this week that the annual Westcountry Balloon Fiesta is to make a comeback.

The event, organised by Tavistock Lions and Round Table clubs, is being revived thanks to sponsorship by Robert Wiseman Dairies and a grant from Tavistock Town Council.

Duncan Carrick, senior area sales manager for Wiseman, which has a site in Okehampton, said: 'We are delighted to be supporting the Westcountry Balloon Fiesta in Tavistock and help it get back off the ground.

'Our sponsorship of the event not only supports the West Country Wiseman brand and our customers, it also allows us to support the community where we have many employees and to help raise money for local charities.

'Our own 'black and white' balloon with the registration G-OMOO was at the last fiesta and we are pleased to be making a return this year. Our roadshow will also be at the Fiesta so visitors will have the chance to sample our products, talk to our staff and even buy a pair of our infamous Wiseman wellies!'

The event takes place on the weekend of September 4 and 5 at Crowndale.

Steve Grummitt, fiesta spokesman, said the Lions Club and Round Table were delighted that with the involvement of Robert Wiseman Dairies, the fiesta was returning.

'We are also pleased that Tavistock Town Council are supporting the event with a grant of £1,500 which will be used to improve the infrastructure at the Crowndale fields, such as allowing easier access for vehicles and also for establishing a permanent balloon gas storage facility at a location within Tavistock for use this year and in the future.'