ParaLYMPIC champion athlete Tanni Grey Thompson, scored another personal first yesterday when she took the controls of a light aircraft.

Tanni was the guest of paraplegic flyer Steve Derwin, 54, of Yarm in Cleveland, who has a specially adapted aircraft at Fishburn Airfield, County Durham.

He took Tanni for an hour-long flight during which she saw Hartlepool Marina and Durham Cathederal.

Tanni, from Redcar, east Cleveland, who has never flown in a light aircraft, said afterwards: "That was a fantastic experience.

"Steve let me take the controls. I must admit I was nervous at first but after a few hairy manouvres, he filled me with confidence and I soon got the hang of it."

Mr Derwin said: "I've always been a fan of Tanni, and we've met at a few marathons in the past.

"The only thing, is, when I take part, I usually come in last and she comes in first."

Tanni said: " It really was fantastic, and I can't wait to have another go. "