HIGH-Flying members of the Southampton based Solent Flying School have their heads in the clouds after carrying off the prestigious "Maltese Falcon" trophy at a European air show.

Five fliers from the school celebrated their achievement in perfect style on yesterday when they touched down at their base at Southampton International Airport after a spectacular formation fly-past.

The group had spent the last week in Malta taking part in the country's internationally famous air rally.

The five-strong group from the flying school decided to take part in the event to celebrate the 100th anniversary of powered flight which takes place this year.

It was the first time the flying school had taken part in the show which featured 35 aircraft from across Europe.

They had to compete in flight-planning competitions, "dressage" and navigation events before learning they had scooped the top award at the show - a trophy based on the famous "Maltese Falcon" from the classic Humphrey Bogart film.

The five pilots - some of whom had only limited flying experience completed a 2,600 mile round trip via Italy and France to take part in the air show.

Flying club member and company director Kevin Payne, 27, of High Street, Fareham said: "The entire club is ecstatic with the result. It was a fantastic achievement to have covered such a distance with such varying levels of skill."