THOUGH licence to kill holder James Bond famously flew this unusual plane, no type of licence is good enough to fly it at the moment - which is why it is resting in the air museum.

The plane, known as an Air Command Sport Elite Gyroplane, is the proud possession of Hartlepool aviation enthusiast Richard Blenner-Hasset.

Mr Blenner-Hasset described flying the plane - a replica of the one which featured in Bond film You Only Live Twice - as "about as much fun you can have with your clothes on."

But after a number of safety scares, the 65 gyroplanes thought to be in Britain were grounded by the aviation authorities.

So Mr Blenner-Hasset donated it to the museum, where it will be displayed until the authorities change their minds.

Museum spokesman Ian Richardson said: "We were very pleased to give the gyroplane a home. It looks very impressive indeed and will certainly make an interesting exhibit for our visitors."

Asked whether the gyroplane would ever take to the skies again, Mr Richardson's only reply was: "Never say never again."

The Yorkshire Air Museum is open throughout the winter. Ring 01904 608595 for times and admission prices.

Updated: 10:42 Wednesday, November 21, 2001