A Marlow air cadet became the UK’s youngest solo glider pilot yesterday – taking to the skies on the morning of his 14th birthday.

Travis Ludlow, a member of the 1811 (Marlow) Squadron Air Training Corps Air Cadets, became the youngest glider pilot and youngest air cadet to fly solo at Booker Gliding Club, based at Wycombe Air Park, on Monday.

Despite “difficult” conditions including cross winds, the Great Marlow School pupil was “over the moon” with his successful flight.

He said: “The wind was stronger than I have ever flown in before, so I was a bit nervous going solo but as soon as the glider started forward I just got on with what I had to do.

"I think it helps to learn with an instructor behind you because when you go solo, you just imagine he is still there."

The law changed in 2012 allowing young glider pilots to fly solo from age 14 instead of the previous age limit of 16.

The youngster has had a keen interest in airplanes since he was four years old.

Travis started flying in March 2016 after his Godmother bought him his first gliding lessons and, according to the Gliding Club’s Chief Flying Instructor has been ready to go solo for some time, but had to wait for the legal age of 14.

His proud father, Nick, says his son is so light, he had to add a 25kg lead weighted cushion for him to sit on in the glider.

He said: “Travis is very passionate about flying, he has worked hard for this, putting in the hours and the training. I couldn’t be more proud of him.”

Travis’ instructor, Graham Saw, added: “The strong Easterly wind and the hazy conditions were far from ideal. Travis coped well in his check flights and I never have to touch the controls. I felt he coped well with the conditions."