Mr. Tall and the Balloon Race is a story from the 1980 Annual.
Plot[]
One fine day, Mr. Tall, Mr. Skinny, Mr. Slow, and Mr. Small were all sitting on top of a hill watching an air balloon race. Mr. Lazy was also there but he was asleep. Mr. Tall enjoyed watching the race, but he was lamenting over how he is unable to ride in a hot air balloon due to his long legs. As a balloon passed by, Mr. Rush (who was piloting the balloon) called for help. One of the ropes that connected the balloon to the basket had become undone! Mr. Rush was in such a hurry to start the race, he didn't tie the rope properly!
Mr. Tall quickly came to his aid by standing up, grabbing the rope, and pulling Mr. Rush back down to safety. Being tall does have its advantages. All of his friends on the hill, except Mr. Lazy as he was still asleep, praised Mr. Tall for his heroism. Mr. Rush thanked Mr. Tall as well, fixed his balloon, and return to the race. When the race was over, Mr. Tall took three tall steps and was home! What a day!