A WANSTEAD stuntman is making a bid to break the long-standing world record for the highest parachute jump.

Steve Truglia, 47, has made an urgent appeal for sponsorship to complete the jump, which would see him break the speed of sound as he free-falls to Earth.

He said he has been planning the leap for 15 years and invested more than £100,000 of his own money, but still needs £500,000 to make his dream a reality.

Mr Truglia said he will ascend to the edge of space seated in an open Kevlar box below a light-weight balloon.

"It's the ultimate," he said. "As a professional stuntman I can't think of a bigger or better stunt. I'll be sitting in a chair looking out at the world."

Mr Truglia said he can be ready to jump in three to four months after further testing on his light-weight balloon and pressurised space suit.

Over the years several attempts have been made on the record, set by American Joe Kittinger 50 years ago. The United States Air Force Colonel leapt from a balloon at 102,800ft.