Oxford scientist Martin Harris is hoping to keep balloonists Andy Elson and Colin Prescot on track for the first successful round-the-world balloon attempt.

The crew of the first all-British bid to fly around the world by hot-air balloon were today waiting to pick up the jet stream which will give them the height and speed they need if they are to succeed.

After a trouble-free but crucial first 24 hours, the balloon was said by its flight control to be "hovering" after soaring over the Sahara Desert.

The Cable & Wireless balloon passed over the frontier of southern Morocco and the western Sahara last night.

The pilots were said to be in good spirits after sorting out several minor glitches. The pair were now travelling at nearly 180mph at an altitude of just over 18,000ft.

From his home in Oxford, Mr Harris, 55, is monitoring world-wide weather patterns in a bid to give the Cable and Wireless sponsored all-British mission a smooth flight.

He is chief meteorological adviser for the flight and is staying in hourly contact with the pilots by satellite phone. Mr Harris, of Oxford Scientific Services, told the team that conditions were perfect for take-off on Wednesday from Almeria, southern Spain.

And following months of research, he was able to advise them that they would be able to slip into a jet-stream which would take them across the Mediterranean and northern Africa.

Mr Harris said: "The flight has had a perfect start and with such experienced pilots on board, they have as good a chance as any of success."

In 1997, Mr Harris helped Richard Branson prepare for a round-the-world attempt in Virgin Challenger but it failed to get off the ground in Morocco.

Mr Harris added: "Richard knows Andy and Colin well and has sent them his best wishes."

Balloonist Robin Batchelor from Chinnor Road, Towersey, is also keeping an eye on the team's progress.

He was the founder of Flying Pictures, and both Colin Prescot and the logistics director Ian Ashpole are part of the company. Robin also taught Richard Branson to fly hot air balloons.

Story date: Friday 19 February

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