PUNTERS at a Preston pub are deflated after party poopers untied their pride and joy - a 30ft inflatable airship-shaped balloon - and let it fly off into the sunset.

Now regulars and workers alike at The Waterfront Toby Restaurant on Preston's docks need help in finding the £3,000 attraction which went missing during the Maritime Festival on Saturday (July 5). The Civil Aviation Authority and Manchester Airport's Air Traffic Control have been in touch with the pub. The 'blimp' has the words Toby - A Slice of British Tradition on the side. Call Andrew on 01772 721108 if you know where it is.

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