Channel crossing

14-06-2008 13:15

A Frenchman is attempting to cross the English Channel on a pedal powered airship.

Stephane Rousson hatched the scheme to complete his 34-mile trip across the channel using his especially designed pedal powered airship.

The helium-filled airship glides 30 metres above the water and is controlled by pedalling and steering with two propellers on either side of the pedals.

Getting his project off the ground has been difficult, Rousson said: "My girlfriend left me because of the balloon - five years of work became too much for her.

Rousson needs a near windless day to make the journey as his craft is so light. He says people have been attempting the same challenge for over 100 years but always failed as their crafts were too heavy.