A BROMSGROVE man has spoken of his relief after being on a jumbo jet that was forced to make an emergency landing.

The Virgin Atlantic jet, Flight VS43 - bound for Las Vegas - developed a landing gear fault after take off from Gatwick.

The plane's crew made several attempts to free the landing gear, but the 747 had to return and circle the West Sussex airport before the pilot managed to land it safely.

Virgin described it as a non-standard landing procedure and said it had been fantastic flying by the pilot, who was applauded by passengers after the landing.

Television pictures showed the plane at a halt safely on the runway, near to where emergency crews and vehicles which had been put on standby.

Nine passengers were treated for minor injuries, and no one was seriously injured.

Town resident Dan Crane was with family and friends on the flight heading to Las Vegas to celebrate New Year's Eve.

The 24-year-old said the mood on the plane before landing was "anxious, a lot were worried, some crying," and passengers were just waiting for the captain's next announcement.

He said the crew kept everyone informed, adding: "They said it was an emergency landing and we had to brace on impact."

On Twitter Mr Crane said: "Took off from Gatwick and now back at Gatwick, the plane just made an emergency landing with two wheels, not a clue how he did it.

"Crazy."

Dan tweeted photos from the plane, showing how passengers were led from the aircraft after the mid-air drama.

Another passenger, Mike Kaufman, said it had been one of the greatest emergency landings in history.

Virgin president Sir Richard Branson tweeted: “Well done Virgin Atlantic pilots and team for safe and skillful landing.

"Thoughts with passengers and crew, thanks for support and patience.”