Redrow makes a flying visit in Burntwood

Lessons at Fulfen Primary School, in Burntwood, reached new heights when housebuilder Redrow Homes made a flying visit with its very own hot air balloon.

Pupils met the pilot of the giant red and white balloon and learned all about the history and science of this fascinating pastime.

They were also able to see the balloon’s envelope being inflated with 105,000 cubic feet (2,973m3) of hot air.

Deputy head teacher of Fulfen Primary School Kathryn Mainwaring said: “The children were really looking forward to the experience and they weren’t disappointed. From a learning point of view it enabled them to find out more about the scientific aspect of flying in a fun and engaging way.”

The Redrow Hot air balloon regularly flies at balloon fiestas and special events all over the UK. It was built by Shropshire-based Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons, who have created more than 4,500 balloons in total.

Standing at 21 metres high, the Redrow balloon can carry a pilot plus four people. More than 850 metres of fabric were used to create what is known as the ‘envelope’ – enough material to wrap two double-decker buses!

Pauline Turnbull, sales director for Redrow Homes (Midlands), says: “The balloon is always a popular attraction and it’s great that it can be used as an educational prop. At Redrow we don’t just build new homes - we want to be good neighbours and part of the community. We were delighted to be able to enrich the learning experiences of children at Fulfen Primary School, which is just a short journey away from our City Wharf development in Lichfield.”

For details of your nearest Redrow development see: redrow.co.uk