No charges after balloon attempt

The balloon set off from Colorado, US

Adventurer David Hempleman-Adams has been cleared of breaking rules during a record-breaking hot-air balloon attempt.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) says Mr Hempleman-Adams, from Wiltshire, followed all the correct procedures during his March flight.

The balloonist, 47, had denied allegations that he entered restricted airspace and did not have the proper licence during his record attempt.

The record is believed to have been broken after Mr Hempleman-Adams reached 43,000ft in a balloon with an open wicker basket.

The previous record of 35,628ft was set by Per Lindstrand in November 1996.

Mr Hempleman-Adams said: "I am absolutely delighted that the FAA found that we had conducted the flight within the correct procedures and am extremely grateful to the organiser in Denver, Tim Cole, in whom I always had every confidence.

"The FAA have at all times been courteous, helpful and professional in clearing up this matter."

Less than 24 hours after landing, the FAA launched an investigation into whether Mr Hempleman-Adams had breached regulations.

FAA spokesman Allen Kenitzer said: "He is not going to be charged with anything in the US."