AN International Hot Air Balloon Festival is making its debut in Sussex this weekend.

The Eastbourne festival is sponsored by Gatwick Airport and organisers say it will be two days of high-flying displays.

If the sun shines all weekend the festival’s main arena will see hot air balloon flights at both dawn and dusk.

Static displays of tethered balloons will take centre stage in Hampden Park from 10am until 11.30am and 1pm until 3pm on Saturday and from 10am until noon on Sunday.

On Saturday evening there will be the incredible Night Glow as the tethered balloons illuminate for a mesmerising display.

Organiser Sandy Boyce-Sharpe said: “It’s an incredibly exciting opportunity to be the first to host a hot air balloon festival in the South East and it’s fantastic to have Gatwick’s support.

“We’re looking forward to a fabulous weekend with plenty to see and do, both in the air and on the ground.

“We can’t wait to welcome thousands of people to Eastbourne to enjoy this fun-filled event.”

Gatwick community engagement manager Paula Aldridge said: “We are proud to be headline sponsor and look forward to a fun filled-weekend.”

The hot air balloon bonanza will be opened by the High Sheriff of East Sussex Maureen Chowen at 11am on Saturday followed by a rendition of Up, up and away sung by Friends of Tigwell Park.

There will also be a display of classic cars, plus a fire engine and miniature ride-on steam trains.

There is a dog show on Sunday, as well as family entertainment on the live stage.

Britain’s Got Talent impressionist Drew Cameron and an uncanny tribute to Sir Elton John are among the attractions.