The Sunrise Balloon

Hot air balloon

Early one morning recently, I saw all the ducks and geese running and flapping for cover, trying to get to shelter on Moscow Island.
Dashing outside, I could see nothing amiss - until from behind and above came a mighty roar!
Over the roof of The Boathouse, came the wonderful sight of a hot air balloon, leisurely crossing above Castlefields and the the mere, then  off slowly into the distance past Otley Court.

On a clear, warm summer's morning - some lucky souls were having a breakfast flight and a bird's eye view of Ellesmere.
The waterfowl, who ignore dogs and are completely unfased by fireworks, were terrified and made for cover as fast as they could - it must have seemed like a huge bird of prey to them.