Fossett search continues

Rescue teams searching for the missing adventurer Steve Fossett are scouring the US state of Nevada.

They spotted the wreckage of a plane, but on closer inspection, that proved to be the remains of an earlier accident.

Mr Fossett, 63, was last seen taking off from the Hilton Ranch south of Smith Valley, Nevada, on Monday night in a single-engined aircraft.

It is believed the aviation record holder was searching for empty and dry lake beds that would be suitable for a forthcoming world land-speed record attempt.

The American millionaire businessman, who holds the record for flying further than anyone in history, was the first person to fly solo around the world in a balloon and the first person to fly a plane solo around the globe without refuelling.

Sir Richard Branson - who has financed many of Mr Fossett's challenges - has backed his friend to be found safe and well.

"Steve is a tough old boot. I suspect he is waiting by his plane right now for someone to pick him up," he said.

"The ranch he took off from covers a huge area and Steve has had far tougher challenges to overcome in the past. Based on his track record, I feel confident we'll get some good news soon."

Teams are searching hundreds of square miles of rugged terrain in western Nevada for the adventurer. Fourteen aeroplanes, along with ground crews, are involved in the search.

Mr Fossett took off at around 9am local time on Monday from a private airstrip on a ranch south of Smith Valley in western Nevada.

When he did not return by noon as scheduled, a friend reported him missing.

Virgin tycoon Sir Richard said later that Mr Fossett had a special watch which he could use to give out a signal to show his location. But he had not done so.

He said: "Steve has been through some near misses and he has always come back alive and well...

"Everyone is concerned, but our hope is that he will turn up in the morning alive and well somewhere in America."

He described Mr Fossett as a "remarkable individual", who is calm, with a great sense of humour.

He added: "There is nobody on earth like him."

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