MANCHESTER Airport has joined forces with St Ann's Hospice in Little Hulton by sponsoring their annual balloon race with a slogan "Watch the Skies".

The sea of 8,000 balloons will be set off by "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" winner Judith Keppel on September 8 at a Family Fun Day held at Hyde's Quarry Bank Inn, Timperley.

A donation for the balloon will gain you entry into the race. Balloon packs available by contacting the fund-raising office at St Ann's Hospice on 0161 498 3631.

The owner of the balloon that travels the furthest will win a trip to Italy.