Probe into Clifton Suspension Bridge balloon manoeuvre

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Balloon nears waters of the River Avon (video: Kate Hale)

An investigation has been launched after a hot air balloon was seen to clear the Clifton Suspension Bridge and dip near to the River Avon below.

Civil Aviation Authority rules state a balloon must be over 500ft (152m) from any object unless it is landing.

Footage taken at 0645 BST shows the basket almost touching water.

Bridge master David Anderson said he was investigating, adding: "I don't know at the moment whether to take it seriously or not."

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have the power to bring a prosecution if air navigation regulations have been breached.

A CAA spokesman said he was not aware of a complaint being made regarding the incident.

Legislation The Rules of the Air state "an aircraft shall not be flown closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle or structure".