Strong support for launch of Telford's balloon fiesta

England’s Strongest Man Sean Logan and Welsh giant Gavin Bilton, runner up in the 2018 edition of Wales’s Strongest Man, are just two of the athletes who will entertain the crowds as the weekend Fiesta welcomes the Ultimate Strongman competition for the first time.

The Fiesta, which drew over 30,000 visitors last year, will take place on May 11 and 12.

Psyche Hudson, culture services manager, said: "This is going to be a very exciting part of the overall event.

"It is a great addition to what is already a fantastic line-up of free family entertainment."

More than 40,000 people are expected to attend the two-day event this year, which will also include over 30 hot air balloons, BMX stunt riders, street entertainers, fire eaters, the spectacular Red Devils parachute team and the beautiful Night Glow set to music.

Whilst the huge cavalcade of balloons is airborne, the Strongmen will take to the QEII Arena as they strain, struggle and strive over a series of five extreme disciplines to take the title of Wales’s Strongest Man or England’s Strongest Man and qualify for the UK’s Strongest Man to be shown on Channel 5.

Mr Logan said: "I’m looking forward to the event. It looks like Telford & Wrekin have pulled out all the stops and I can’t wait to defend my title."

Mr Bilton said: "“I’m very excited to take on some of the strongest men in Wales here. The venue is perfectly situated in the centre of Telford and it’s all free.”

Wales’s Strongest Man takes place on May 11 from 1pm, with England's Strongest Man taking place from 1pm on May 12.