A WOLLESCOTE model plane pilot is on top of the world after coming first in a free flying competition.

Stafford Screen from Stevens Road has been involved in flying model planes for years and has travelled every year for the last 12 years to Lost Hills in California to take part in the annual competition.

This is the first year Mr Screen has finished in first place in the International class in the Bob White Maxmen competition although he is a world class and has picked up many trophies in competitions.

The planes are 2.6 metres long and Stafford builds them all himself which can take up to 300 hours.

The retired design consultant who is originally from Blackheath in Halesowen said: "I compete in the international class which is difficult as there are some strong Americans who also compete in the competition."

Mr Screen got involved in light weight model aircraft during the war when the sport was popular - since then radio control planes have become more favoured.

Stafford, who has been part of the British team for 29 years, will travel to Ukraine at the end of June to take part in the World Championships and the British National Championships held in RAF Barkston Heath, Grantham in May.

He added: "I look hopefully to win a trophy but the opportunities get less as you get older.

" You have to qualify each year get into the competitions but a lot of it is to do with luck as not always the best model will win."

Transportation of these model planes aren't easy but Virgin Atlantic are extremely helpful and allow the planes to travel in the overhead luggage compartment to prevent damage.

Luckily Stafford's two daughters and two granddaughters are extremely understanding of his competitive hobby as he said: "You have to be selfish to be successful as you wouldn't be able to compete in the world championships or for our country if you weren't dedicated."