Richard Browning, founder and chief test pilot of British tech company Gravity Industries has soared into the record books with the brand new Guinness World Records title for the Fastest speed in a body controlled jet engine powered suit.

The attempt took place at Lagoona Park in Reading, UK in celebration of Guinness World Records Day 2017 (Thursday 9 November).

Adjudicator Pravin Patel was on hand to verify the achievement, making sure that the speed was measured accurately over a minimum distance of 100 metres.

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Richard achieved an impressive speed of 32.02 mph (51.53 km/h) on his third and final timed attempt, before dropping into the lake. By that point though it didn't matter because Richard had made already history with Gravity’s game-changing invention!

The Iron Man suit is made up of six kerosene-fuelled micro gas turbines, which each have 22 kg of thrust.

It depends on human body movement alone to control the flight path of its wearer – there is no remote control device used to steer the suit.

This record is not all about the jet engine suit though – the family-man had to practice core strength exercises prior to the attempt to make sure he was able to balance and hold his position in the air while flying.

Once he was back on the ground, Richard said: “I am delighted we have set the record. I’m very proud indeed to be a part of Guinness World Records Day, it is a pleasure and a privilege to have our unique creation recognised and celebrated all round the world.”

“Guinness World Records Day unites people across the planet from all walks of life, all of whom have one common goal – to be Officially Amazing!” added Guinness World Records Editor-in-Chief, Craig Glenday.

“Whether you’re spinning the largest hula hoop or building and flying a real life Iron Man suit, Guinness World Records Day recognises and celebrates the achievements of anyone dedicated enough to be the best” – Craig Glenday.

Launched to celebrate the day in 2004 when Guinness World Records became the world's bestselling copyright book, #GWRday 2017 will see upwards of 600,000 people around the world attempting to secure their place in the history books.

Stay tuned to our live blog on GuinnessWorldRecords.com, the GWR YouTube channel and #GWRday to be the first to know when another new record is set.