A DETERMINED sculptor is making a fresh bid to immortalise one of the region's greatest heroes with a Mount Rushmore-style work of art.

Darren Yeadon believes he could carve the face of legendary seafarer Captain James Cook into the ancient sandstone cliffs at Whitby.

And he has already carried out detailed geological surveys to convince the local authority that the highly ambitious project - in the tradition of the giant Mount Rushmore carvings of US presidents - could realistically be completed.

Mr Yeadon, 31, of High Hawsker, North Yorkshire, has attempted to gain approval for the spectacular project in the past, but has seen his efforts thwarted by councillors.

But he is now campaigning for the support of people in Whitby and hopes his more careful preparation this time round will win him the blessing of Scarborough Borough Council.

Mr Yeadon believes completing the carving would take about two months.

This would allow the giant image to be unveiled in time for the return of the replica of Captain Cook's ship, HM Bark Endeavour, to Whitby in the summer. Endeavour is due to arrive at her spiritual home in a visit that will attract thousands of visitors and pump millions of pounds into the economy along the North Yorkshire coast.

The £10m vessel has already set sail from Western Australia, and is due in Whitby on June 26.

The Cook project is likely to cost about £5,000. Anyone who would like to make a donation can contact Mr Yeadon on (01348) 875074.