SKIES above Harden Moor will be full with planes when Keighley and District Model Aircraft Club holds a record-breaking 24-hour flying marathon in aid of a children’s hospice.

A total of 140 members and hundreds of spectators will gather at the club’s official flying site, opposite the Guide pub, for a model aeroplane extravaganza with 22 skilled pilots flying day and night.

The fundraising event, in aid of Martin House, Boston Spa, starts at 10am on Saturday, June 21.

“It’s going to be a great challenge for pilots and planes and as far as we know, it’s never been done before,” said club member Mike Banks who will be flying a classic biplane similar to a Tiger Moth.

“It’s got a six-foot wingspan and a 33cc engine,” said retired builder Mr Banks, who has already been sponsored for £500 by trade suppliers Tool Central of Bingley.

“And it’s guaranteed every penny will be going straight to Martin House, which does marvellous work,” Mr Banks said.

“Like everything, a lot depends on the weather, but we are expecting three to five hundred people over the weekend.

“There will be at least one plane in the air all the time and there will be a barbecue, a band on and a modelling car boot sale at 10am on the Sunday.”