IT’S a castle like you’ve never seen before - one made of 50,000 helium balloons.

And it’s the realisation of a dream for balloon artist Aga Gabrysiak.

She took part in a two-day task to build the colourful Christmas scene with helium balloons.

Aga Gabrysiak of the Highworth Emporium, who only became an officially-certified balloon artist in October, joined in with the biggest not-for-profit balloon building ever staged.

The Big Balloon Build saw five teams of seven volunteers and balloon enthusiasts in Llantrisant, Glamorgan, create a 35ft castle in a wintry setting with a mountain backdrop.

Aga said: “It was very challenging but very enjoyable, I’d definitely do it again.The more progress we made, the more the excitement grew, and when I saw everything come together at last, it was an amazing and even emotional experience.

“The first day was just the backdrop, the second was all the characters and details so it was much more intense. My team made the nutcrackers and part of the castle.

“I felt privileged to be part of it, there were people there from all over the UK and America.

“Before taking part in this, the biggest events I’d done with balloons were the May Day celebrations and WrdeUp Festival.

“The aim was to wow everyone who sees it, young or old, and I think we succeeded, our hard work paid off.”

The Big Balloon Build was organised, designed and planned by balloon artist Stuart Davies of Beyond Balloons in Tonyrefail.

The build will be carefully taken apart and transported to schools and hospitals around Wales to cheer up children and their families during the festive season.

Aga was first introduced to balloon artistry three years ago by her friend Louise Isherwood and quickly fell in love with the hobby. She is one of only five certified balloon artists in Wiltshire. The skill is different to modelling, which involves twisting special balloons.

Aga added: “Balloons are fun, they give joy and they always create a smile, whatever the occasion.

“The excitement you see on children’s faces when you create balloon decorations is amazing. I can only do basic balloon animals, that’s a whole other thing, people who can do that are brilliant. I’m already thinking of what to make for next year’s Wild West-themed May Day event.”

Highworth Emporium co-owner Richard Marsden said: “We have delivered balloons for weddings and birthdays, and to pubs and hotels for special occasions. Everyone likes them and they’ve become a massive part of the growth of our business. We want to create something special.”