Virgin hot air balloon lands in Durham housing estate

A hot air balloon was forced to make an emergency landing in a housing estate after a passenger fell unwell.

Residents were surprised to see the Virgin balloon come down on Tail-upon-End Lane in Bowburn, Durham, at about 10:00 BST on Monday.

It landed as a precaution and the affected passenger made a full recovery, Virgin Balloon Flights said.

A spokesperson said remaining passengers "enjoyed a traditional prosecco toast".

Witnesses said the balloon was carrying several passengers when it landed at about 10:00 BST.

It then deflated with the balloon appearing to come to rest close to homes.

"I just thought there's a balloon in the houses," witness Dave Charnley said, adding: "There were a lot of people out of their houses, anybody who was around was having a look."

It had taken off from Fishburn, County Durham, about an hour before and stopped next to a road causing a temporary blockage.

Virgin Balloon Flights said although such incidents "could be concerning", it took the "safety and satisfaction of customers very seriously".

A spokesperson said the "experienced pilot" was "in full control at all times", with the balloon then packed up and driven back to base in a support van with the passengers.

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