August 12, 2010 4.50 pm This story is over 163 months old

Balloons launched in city for charity

Balloon race: Lincoln city centre was today filled with balloons being launched as part of a fundraiser for charity.

Lincoln’s city centre skies were filled with 300 white and purple balloons on August 12, as part of a fundraiser for the Meningitis Research Foundation.

Children and volunteers were urged to donate and participate in the day’s balloon racing events. Lincoln BIG’s Rachel Hanson organised the charity event in memory of her nephew, who was taken by the illness earlier this year.

The charity balloon race raised awareness of Meningitis and how important research for a cure is.

Earlier this year Rachel Hanson’s two year old nephew passed away without warning due to Meningitis.

Hanson’s nephew was posted in pictures in the area as a reminder of just how serious the illness is.

Volunteers offered face painting for donations to both children and adults.

A large crowd gathered as the children competed in talent competitions for £5 and £10 vouchers to W.H. Smith.

Volunteers and friends wait patiently for their turn to release the balloons that were providing them shade.

In preparation for the balloon release, children practiced their counting down skills.

The balloons were released after everyone present participated in a loud countdown.

The balloons took flight fast as children watched in wonder how they became tiny dots.

Many joked that the balloons they were on their way to Boston.