One Dorset schoolboy has become the county's youngest glider pilot - at the age of just 14.

James Peace from Buckland Newton flew his first solo flight above the Purbeck countryside in July, becoming Dorset's youngest qualified glider pilot, to the delight and applause of massed members - including his grandfather, Dorchester business owner Michael Slade.

James, who joined the Dorset Gliding Club aged 12, said he had only had a slight suspicion that he was going to take to the skies solo for the first time on Saturday, July 14.

"I flew three launches with the instructor before going solo," he explained. "This was to make sure I was ready for any outcome."

He revealed that the instructor had told him that the launches, and launch-failure practices, had been 'exceptionally good' - and that he should be proud of himself.

"Then he said, 'You are cleared for solo,'" James added.

"The instructor gave me some encouragement before I launched - namely, to fly a well-planned circuit, and to enjoy myself."

Dorset Echo:

James Peace (right) with chief instructor Nathan Hanney

The young pilot added that he 'hadn't really felt anything' during his first solo flight, as he had had to focus. "I was a tiny bit nervous before I launched, but I'd done it many times before.

"When I landed I felt proud and happy - and my mum said 'well done'."

Dorset Gliding Club's Nick Barnes praised James' achievement.

"James becoming a solo glider pilot at such a young an age was made possible by his dedication and determination," Mr Barnes said. "Learning to fly is rewarding but also very challenging, It is both physically and mentally demanding but with the help and support offered at the Dorset Gliding Club, James achieved his goal."

The club, which is based at Eyres Field off Puddletown Road, offers training for junior pilots, with an hour-long flight with a fully qualified instructor offered for as little as £4 for young members between the ages of 12 and 20.

"Gliding can open a gateway to a career in aviation, as well as being a fun and exciting sport or leisure activity," Mr Barnes noted.

If you want to learn more about gliding and Dorset Gliding Club please visit www.dorsetglidingclub.co.uk or call the club on 07784 732648. Trial flights are also available at the club every weekend.