They will launch their man-powered flying machine, the Cock of the North, off a ramp and into The Serpentine in London's Hyde Park in front of 80,000 spectators. The Kershaw team are hoping to beat 41 others in the Red Bull Flugtag Championship.

Andy Kershaw, of Rochdale Road, Greetland, said: "We have been working hard for months.

"The creative genius from the mass of entries is ensuring the competition will be fiercer than ever."

He said of their entry: "Unusually, for a flying competition, the craft has no wings. But it has been designed to plummet!"

Andy and the rest of the team – stepfather Dave Webster, from Birkenshaw, cousin Steven Kershaw and uncle Pete Kershaw from Wyke – first took part in the Flugtag in 2003 when they came fifth with Pink Flamingo.

This year's entry was inspired by Hipperholme-based Halifax Steam Brewery's flagship ale, Cock O' The North.

They team have been helped with money and materials by firms but are still looking for a sponsor to help cover accommodation costs.