RESIDENTS got an unusual wake-up call at the weekend when an air balloon landed in the middle of a housing estate.

The balloon was taking part in the event in Bedale, North Yorkshire, and came down on the Southfields estate on Saturday.

Deputy Mayor Malcolm Young who took these photos said: "I don’t think I’ve seen so many people in pyjamas, including me, all turn out to see a huge balloon land on the public open space on the Southfields estate, it was 6am.

“ I would just like to say what a truly wonderful sight to see them all, a really wonderful advert for the sport of ballooning and for Bedale.”

The balloon festival attracted 15 balloons from all over the country, including one group from Bristol. It was held on the site of Bedale Athletic Sports Association at Masham Road. Balloons were flown early morning and early evening when weather conditions were at their best.