Cancer survivor sets off on round world record bid in tiny aircraft

Cheered on by hundreds of well wishers, Norman Surplus, 47, lifted off in his tiny aircraft from a playing field in his hometown of Larne, Co Antrim, on the first leg of an epic 27,000-mile journey involving stop-offs in 25 countries.

Hoping to raising funds and awareness for cancer research, the father of two circled the town's famous round tower twice before setting out over the Irish sea towards Great Britain.

Mr Surplus said a emotional goodbye to his wife Celia and young

children Felix and Petra before climbing on board.

While he has an arduous four months of solo travel ahead of him, the business man turned have-a-go pilot has already completed a remarkable journey to even get to the start.

Five years ago his outlook was bleak when he was diagnosed with cancer.

But after months of treatment beat the disease and is now intent on creating ing a world record. The very small aircraft – also known as an autogyro – is most famous for an appearance in the James Bond film You Only Live Twice.

On top of the fund raising, Mr Surplus who is joint director of a renewable energy company in Larne, hopes his journey will raise

awareness of an eco-friendly means of transport.

He needs sponsors to help him complete the challenge. For more information email [email protected]