Cross-Channel kite surfer Andy Ward about to set off from Braye Beach. (0844892)

KITE SURFER Andy Ward completed his record-breaking Channel crossing from Alderney to Poole yesterday.

Mr Ward, 33, set off from the edge of the breakwater at 9.30am – more than two hours later than planned – after calm conditions earlier in the morning forced him to abandon plans to begin the 70 nautical-mile trip from Braye Beach.

He landed at Sandbanks at 3.30pm.

Light winds had threatened to derail his record attempt altogether but a force four south-easterly allowed the crossing to begin.

Speaking after his crossing, Mr Ward said it had been a struggle at the start with not enough wind, but after coming up the west of the Channel he had made it.

‘It was exhilarating – a real adrenaline rush.’

It was the first time anyone has attempted to kite surf the Channel.

Father-of-three Mr Ward decided to take on the challenge to raise money for the Special Boat Service Association, to which he has family connections. So far he has raised more than £4,000 – with more promised now that he has completed the crossing.