A Winter sports legend was there to see off the first flight of a new air route linking Southampton to the Alps.

Olympic ski jumper Eddie "the Eagle" Edwards watched as easyjet launched its new service to Geneva this morning.

The plucky Brit who won the hearts of spectators at the 1988 games chatted with passengers and posed for photos with fellow skiers before the flight.

It’s the first time easyJet has operated from Southampton Airport and its new service aims to provide passengers from across the region additional options for winter ski holidays or for connecting through Geneva.

Flights from Southampton to Geneva operate three times a week throughout the winter on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays and are available to book at easyJet.com

Ali Gayward, of easyjet said: “It’s fantastic to be here today to see off our first ever flight to Geneva. We are pleased to be expanding our network and starting easyJet flights from Southampton.

“Our new route provides customers looking to hit the slopes this winter or spend Christmas in the Alps, with an easy and affordable connection.

“We’re looking forward to seeing increasing numbers of passengers choosing to fly with us from Southampton”

Managing Director, Dave Lees Southampton Airport, said:

“We are really delighted to welcome easyJet to Southampton Airport this winter as well as Eddie! This will give our passengers an increased choice for their ski trips with a new and very strong brand and the low prices provide some really great deals to get you on the slopes. We look forward to working with easyJet through the winter season."

Fire tenders at the airport provided the first flight with a traditional arch of water from their high pressure hoses as the plane taxied down the runway.