Huge congratulations to everyone involved in The Eclipse Flight event which took place in Malmesbury on Sunday 21st May.
The unique event brought crowds to Cross Hayes to witness an attempt to recreate the famous 1881 flight by well-known Victorian explorer and Malmesbury MP, Walter Powell. It commemorated his flight from the very same spot, 136 years prior and is part of Athelstan Museum’s appeal to restore the Moravian Church – a community project to benefit the whole town.
There was a fantastic atmosphere in the build up to the launch but sadly with lift off imminent the wind prevented the balloon from getting airborne safely, however the Moravian Church appeal will benefit from the generous donations made on the day. David Hempleman-Adams expressed his own disappointment but hoped that a good amount had been raised and that the community had enjoyed the event.
Making the press
The Eclipse Flight still managed to make a few headlines, despite the unfortunate outcome. Here’s just a few of the places Malmesbury made an appearance (click on the links to see them):
BBC Points West • Wilts & Glos Standard • Gazette & Herald • The Herald
Twitter: #EclipseFlight2017
Official YouTube aerial view video:
Image Gallery
