Up in the air

Balloon travels 140 miles to bring together two girls with exactly the same name

Have you ever released a balloon into the sky and wondered where it will end up? 10-year old Laura Buxton did just that.



While celebrating her grandparents' golden wedding anniversary in 2001, Laura tied a note to a balloon with instructions to 'Please write to Laura Buxton', and released it.



The balloon floated 140 miles from Stoke-on-Trent to Milton Lilbourne in Wiltshire, where it was found deflated in a hedge by a farmer. Spotting the name, the farmer delivered it to his neighbour's daughter - also called Laura Buxton.



By sheer coincidence, the balloon had been released by one girl, travelled 140 miles across the country and ended up in the hands of another girl with exactly the same name.



According to reports, the two girls later got in touch and continue to enjoy one of the UK's most unlikely friendships to this day.



"We have no idea why this happened, but it did, and out of it has come a wonderful friendship." said Laura's mother (the first one).