UK teacher sets new world record for a throw in (inna different stylee)

Teacher Danny Brooks has set a new world record for the longest throw-in, launching a ball more than half the length of a football pitch.

Photos: BULLET7 / GUINNESS RECORDS

The PE teacher, from Halifax, West Yorkshire, has perfected a forward flip that enables him to throw a football legally with both feet on the ground, generating maximum arm speed in the build-up.

Mr Brooks, a former gymnast, used his athletic skills to send the ball 49.78 metres (163ft 3.8in) – the length of five double-decker buses – and set a new Guinnessworld record.

He said he got the idea from watching Stoke City fullback Rory Delap, who has achieved cult status for his enormous throw-ins, and honed his technique before beating the record of 48.17m, recorded by Michael Lochner of the USA in 1998.

Mr Brooks, 28, said: "I realised I could do a flip while holding the ball. I thought if I could get the angles and timing right I could beat the record."

He sent off a film and photographic evidence of his throw, and a Guinness World Records spokesman confirmed the new record on Monday night.

Mr Brooks said: "When it was confirmed it suddenly hit home. I can't believe I'm the best in the world at something."

@'Sat-Universe'