WORLD famous balloonist Per Lindstrand unveiled his latest venture - to give tourists the view of a lifetime from 400 feet above York in a balloon.

Per, who has captured numerous world records for hot air balloon flights, wants to launch a helium-filled HiFlyer from the city centre.

But instead of floating away across the Vale of York, the balloon would be tethered to the ground by a steel cable - with up to 25 people in the gondola looking down on the Minster, Clifford's Tower and all the city's other great sights, and also able to see 25 miles in every direction.

Per said today that similar balloons were operating at some of the world's greatest tourist sites, including Niagara Falls, Victoria Falls, Pompeii and Barcelona.

But there was only one other so far in Britain, which operated in the summer season only in Bournemouth.

He said York had been chosen as the country's first city tourist destination, ahead of cities such as Edinburgh.

"York is perfect for it. There would be fantastic views."

He believed the balloon rides would be a massive boost to tourism in the city, which was now a crucial part of the city's economy, but needed new attractions to keep visitors coming. A commentary would explain its history to passengers.

It would also be a great attraction for residents, for whom discounts would be available at off-peak times, while businesses would also be able to hire out the balloon for corporate clients. Per, who is managing director of balloon and airship manufacturers Lindstrand Balloons Ltd of Shropshire, did not believe the HiFlyer would cause environmental problems.

"It wouldn't smell, it wouldn't give off pollution, it would not be noisy," he said. "It would be totally silent, including the winch."

He said gaudy colours would be avoided for the balloon, but it could be used to promote big city events, such as the Food and Drink Festival or the Mystery Plays. "It could be a flagpole for York."

He anticipated a £10 basic charge for a 15-minute trip in the balloon, which would include about four minutes to ascend and another four minutes to return to earth, but there could be lower charges for children, with school parties enjoying special discounts in the off-peak weekday morning period.

Asked if the proposal would face competition from the separate proposals for a big wheel at the National Railway Museum, he said: "This is different. This will go to 400 feet, twice as high as the Minster."

He said passengers would stand in a secure gondola, fenced in to prevent anyone falling out or attempting suicide,but open to the elements.

He said he had been in preliminary talks with council planners about the proposal.

Per said he wanted to know what the people of York thought about the idea, and urged residents to write to or email the Evening Press with their views. They should phone chief reporter Mike Laycock on 01904 567132, email mike.laycock@ycp.co.uk, or write to Mike Laycock, Newsdesk, Evening Press, 76-86 Walmgate, York, YO1 9YN.

Updated: 11:08 Saturday, November 19, 2005