Tom Hilditch Email & Phone Number

I have been around ballooning all my life. I have had a pilot's licence since 2012 and a Commercial Licence since 2017. I have organised international balloon events in Czech Republic and Poland and in 2017 flew across the English Channel as part of a world record crossing of 83 balloons.In November of 2020 I had the opportunity to go out to Germany to help test flight program of a new design of Hydrogen gas balloon that will be flown across the Atlantic Ocean in Helium / Hot Air combination mode. Whilst out there, I had my first gas balloon flight, I plan to do more this summer and hope to be able to contribute to growing the sport in the UK as the cost of green Hydrogen comes down and its availability increases. Eventually gas ballooning will become cheaper than hot air. Gas Ballooning would be an ideal way for a green energy company to promote Hydrogen as a safe, clean important component for a green energy mixed economy.I have been interested in Hydrogen as an energy carrier since hearing my secondary school teacher raving about it being the perfect fuel to replace oil and natural gas in road, sea and air transportation and I believe there are a multitude of ways H2 gas balloons can be used as effective marketing tools for companies working with Green Hydrogen. Not only are balloons eye-catching and memorable, but the unique look of a gas balloon compared to a hot air balloon and the lack of them will make each one stand out. They are also effective tools for highlighting how safe Hydrogen is and debunk the 'Hindenburg' myth and other stigmas often attached to Hydrogen. Its effective use as a lifting gas will also highlight how quickly Hydrogen would dissipate in the event of a tank rupture and that because of this a FCEV is arguably less of a fire risk than a ICE vehicle or BEV.Next summer I intend to cycle around England towing a Hot Air Balloon, flying a different well known person in each county, raising money and awareness for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. I have friends with the illness, so it is a cause close to my heart. The Cystic Fibrosis community often associate themselves with '65 roses', so I am looking for 65 companies to fund the challenge. I am asking for small amounts of money to have their logo on the kit, for a larger amount they can have their logo on the balloon. I would work with sponsors to promote their products and services through their use during the challenge or in preparation for it and provide flying opportunities for competitions on social media and to gift towards clients and staff.

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  King'S Manor Community College