Following developments by Ed Yost in the United States, members of the Bristol Gliding Club decided to create their own hot air balloon.

Three other members, Charles Meisl, a Czechoslovakian citizen, Tom Sage, a press photographer from London and Malcolm Brighton subsequently joined the group.

Wing Commander Gerry Turnbull from RAF Weston-on-the-Green, an experienced gas-balloon pilot, was to teach the team how to fly.

The first flight of the Bristol Belle took place on 9 July 1967 from RAF Weston-on-the-Green, and was covered by the Daily Telegraph and other media.

This early morning launch carried mail to Malta while the Ark Royal was steaming off the southern coast of the island on 29 November 1970.