A KINGSWOOD couple are celebrating this week having played vital roles in an historic record-breaking balloon trip.

As logistics and flight director, David Owen, of High Street, was in constant contact with intrepid explorer David Hempleman-Adams as he became the first person to complete a solo flight across the Atlantic in the open wicker basket of a Roziere gas balloon.

Dr Owen's wife Cathie also formed part of the team at flight control centre, in Bath, from where Mr Hempleman Adams was guided through his difficult mission.

Dr Owen, who is a commercial balloon pilot and instructor by trade, said flight control was also a test of endurance.

"We were manning the control centre 24 hours a day during the flight so no one got much sleep," he said.

Mr Hempleman-Adams had to stay awake standing in the open wicker basket for the entire 83-hour flight, enduring extremely cold temperatures and even flying through a snowstorm. The team on the ground guided the explorer through his trip.

"We received all the meteorological information and were speaking to David at least once an hour informing him of what level to fly at, speed, advice and how to find those levels," said Dr Owen.

As well as offering technical advice, the team also had to act as a councillor to the pilot to help him through difficult times. These included one heart-stopping moment when the balloon was affected by the sonic boom of a passing Concorde.

"I was on the receiving end of that one," said Dr Owen. "David was minding his own business when the balloon suddenly lurched and dropped several hundred feet and there was a massive double bang. Luckily I know immediately what it was and was able to reassure David that the balloon was fine."

Although the historic trip was a solo attempt, Dr Owen said both he and Mr Hempleman-Adams agree it was very much a team effort.

"In flight control we were surrounded by a first class team. I am tremendously proud of David's achievement and of the team."

Dr Owen had been working with Mr Hempleman-Adams for 18 months leading up to the successful crossing.

"I am also extremely proud of my wife, for all she has had to put up with in this attempt and all her efforts last week," added Dr Owen.

The balloon touched down in a field north east of Blackpool at around 6pm last Tuesday, four days after launching from Sussex, New Brunswick, Canada.

Dr Owen said he would be happy to assist Mr hempleman-Adams in any future record breaking attempts.

"I am sure David has several new projects in the pipeline and he knows I am always there if he needs my help to complete any future projects," he said.