A THRILL-SEEKING businessman from Huddersfield is attempting to break the world blindfold land speed record.

Curtis Paxman, 29, director of brewing supplies firm, Brewfitt, hopes to reach speeds in excess of 145mph during his record-breaking attempt at Elvington Airfield in York.

The record is currently held by Mike Newman from Cheshire, who achieved an average speed of 144.7mph in a Jaguar.

Curtis will make his attempt in a Formula 1 Tyrrell racing car, capable of speeds of more than 200mph.

Curtis is a keen motorsports enthusiast and has already raced at tracks throughout the UK.

"In terms of racing and fast cars I have got plenty of experience of driving at 160 or 170 miles per hour," he said.

Curtis, who lives in the Holme Valley and is married to Clair, 26, will be one of 17 contenders who are also hoping to break the record.

The stunt is being staged by event organisers, Record Breakers, to raise money for the British Blind Sport charity. And Curtis has to raise a minimum of £3,700 for the challenge.

"I'm going to be a serious contender. I'm not going to go out and not try to achieve this."

Alone in the car, he has contact with a guide in an equally powerful vehicle, telling him his speed, distance and when to change gear, as well as tracking the direction of his vehicle.

He also has a switch to kill all power to his car if he gets into difficulties.

To sponsor Curtis ring 07768 448202.