A PENSIONER has flown a plane for the first time at the age of 70 - despite being completely blind.

Former bus fitter Jack McGrath, of Beechburn Park in Crook, County Durham, lost his sight in a work accident 14 years ago.

But he did not let that stop him from flying a Cessna 152 aeroplane from Newcastle International Airport last week.

His wife and son booked him a one-hour flying lesson at the airport's Northumbria Flying School to celebrate his birthday.

After allowing him to explore the cockpit and get a feel for the controls and the position of equipment, his instructor took him 2,500ft above the ground before handing over the controls.

"You could say I've achieved a lifetime's ambition," said Mr McGrath, who has a seven-year-old Labrador guide dog called Irwin. "I had always fancied it.

"We headed up just north of Morpeth and we were in the air for about 40 minutes. The instructor let me have a go for about 25 minutes.

"She said I had done as well as anybody who is having their first lesson. I really enjoyed it. I've got quite a taste for it now - I wouldn't mind doing it again."

Mr McGrath, who is a trustee and committee member of support group Blind Life in Durham (Blind), was presented with a certificate to mark his flight.

In June, he took part in a blind Nissan drive challenge, driving a dual-controlled car at about 60mph around a track, and he also enjoys canoeing and sailing.

"I'll have a go at anything, I enjoy a challenge," he said.

"There's a lot I can't do, but I've got to concentrate on the things I can. I hope it inspires other blind people to do what they want to do."

Margaret Welch, of Blind, said: "He makes a regular contribution to all our meetings and our members are inspired by him."