The flight is part of the Blind Ambition Plan

Jamie Weller is preparing for the stunt later this year, by taking to London's skies at Bristol's International Balloon Fiesta.

The 34-year-old, from Nottingham, left the Royal Navy after starting to lose his sight. He is registered blind and has peripheral vision only.

He plans to raise money for the St Dunstan's charity.

Mr Weller's flight across the capital is the final part of the charity's Blind Ambition Campaign.

Mr Weller, a chartered tax advisor, said: "I used to be an aircraft engineer in the Royal Navy and always wanted to be a pilot.

"A helicopter or plane would be a bit more difficult but a balloon is at my speed. I do have some vision and the speed allows me to pilot relatively safely.

"I use my other senses to feel how the balloon is moving."

The London crossing will take place sometime before 26 September.