A DAREDEVIL dad has broken the world record for the greatest number of aircraft take-offs and landings in one hour.

Mark Hanson, 43, broke the previous target of 36 and managed 39 cycles.

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The dad-of-three, from Padiham, took to the skies in a German built ‘Extra EA 300L’ over Kirkbride Airfield in Cumbria.

The plane had to reach 1,000 feet and land with all the wheels on the ground to count as one cycle.

The acrobatic pilot who owns a skip hire business in Burnley has raised more than £1,000 for Pendleside Hospice, which tries to enhance the quality of life for people with life-limiting illnesses.

Mr Hanson said despite breaking the world record, he felt he could have added more to the tally.

He said: “Unfortunately the weather wasn’t quite what we had hoped for.

“Due to the wind direction I couldn’t slow down as fast as I would have liked so my average speed was slower than previous attempts.

“On a clear day, I know I could have definitely gone for 50, as in my practice attempts I was hitting 48 complete cycles.

“I’m still really pleased though, we’ve raised money for a great cause who rely on self funding.”

The attempt was originally planned for last week, but had to be cancelled due to poor visibility and bad weather.

Mr Hanson, who has more than 300 hours of flying experience, was taught to fly by the previous record holder Marcus Furniss.

Mr Hanson said: “We had to do it because you cannot keep putting things off forever.

“It was still a fantastic day and I gave it my best shot and broke the record.

“I believe someone is attempting the record on September, 10, so I will have to see what they do and think about whether I will want to have another crack at it.

“I picked the hospice because I’ve had a few friends who have had family dealings with cancer and they do the most incredible work.

“They are an inspiration to us all and I want to be able to give them something that will hopefully make a difference to someone’s life.”

Christine Cope, fundraising manager at the Burnley-based hospice, said: “This has certainly been one of the most unusual fundraisers we have ever had at the hospice.

“But we thank Mark and everyone involved for chosing our charity to help, all money raised goes a long way.”

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/mark-hanson6.