Man performs flying umbrella scene from Mary Poppins

A man in California has managed to recreate the famous scene from Mary Poppins in which the film character flies through the sky supported only by an umbrella.

Professional adrenaline junkie Erik Roner performed the stunt as a promotional video for GoPro Camera and was able to fly with a strengthened umbrella for several seconds before it snapped and he used a parachute to reach the ground safely.

"I'm hanging out under an umbrella under a hot air balloon. I'm going to see if an umbrella actually slows you down, like Mary Poppins does," he is quoted as saying by Metro.

Mr Roner went on to note that Nasa should be able to make good use of the information gathered on the unusual journey and, upon reaching the ground, he said: "You're welcome, science."

The daredevil also found time for a spot of humour, remembering to thank Mary Poppins for the excellent idea that inspired the stunt.