THE plans to take tourists and residents 400 feet into the sky above York in a balloon have been strongly backed by Evening Press readers.

They say hot air balloonist Per Lindstrand's proposal is a "fantastic and fabulous" idea, which they would enjoy as much as tourists.

The Evening Press exclusively revealed on Saturday how the 46-year-old adventurer wants to provide rides in a helium-filled balloon from a city centre location, giving superb views from above of the Minster and other major landmark buildings.

He said the HiFlyer balloon would be tethered to the ground with a steel cable, with people paying perhaps £10 for a 15-minute ride.

He said he had had preliminary discussions with council planners, but before lodging any application, he wanted to know what our readers thought of the idea - and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

Richie Wynne, of Acomb, said: "Having been fortunate enough to enjoy a balloon ride before, I heartily recommend Per's scheme. My ride was at Castle Howard and it would have been even better to be able to go up above York itself.

"Most balloon rides are about £100, so a tenner would do very nicely. I reckon a lot of people would turn up even just to watch the thing going up and down. Top idea."

Karen Garbutt said she thought it was a "fantastic idea," although she thought a 20-minute ride would be best.

"I would certainly be queuing for a go and look forward to it."

Russ Doano, of Haxby Road, also said he thought the proposal was "fantastic," saying: "It would be a great addition to the city's attractions, both for tourists and residents alike - imagine those views!

"Mr Lindstrand has convincing answers for all the important questions (intrusiveness, pollution, noise, safety), so York residents, tourism chiefs and council planners should grab this opportunity with both hands."

Pensioner Maureen Knowlson, of Strensall, said: "I think it would be fabulous. I would go up in it a few times - with my camera."

Ian James, of Cameron Grove, said the idea should be encouraged. "A few years ago I took a trip in a similar one located in Stockholm - it is indeed silent and visually unobtrusive," he said.

"The ascent and descent are steady but exhilarating.

"The view, and the feeling of being "in the third dimension," really was fantastic.

"Come on York - let's have one!"

Updated: 09:51 Wednesday, November 23, 2005