Tightrope walker plunges 100ft to death in hot air balloon stunt

Melet was known for his breathtaking stunts which included tightrope walking between mountains Credit: Antoine Moineville/Facebook

A daredevil extreme sports enthusiast, known for his breathtaking high wire stunts, has died while preparing for a tightrope walk between two hot air balloons.

Tancrède Melet, 32, plunged nearly 100ft to his death in Drome, southeastern France.

According to his fellow aerial acrobats, he fell "after being suspended at arm's length at the basket" during preparations for the stunt on Tuesday.

Tancred Melet plunged 100ft to his death after attempting a tightrope walk between two hot air balloons. Credit: Facebook

Tancrède, who was an experienced slackliner, base jumper, and member of the Flying Frenchies sports team, was described by friends as "an amazing lover of life" and "pioneer of the skyline".

In a tribute posted on their Facebook page, the group said Tancrède was "in love with circus and acrobatic performance".

Tancrède doing what he loved best. Credit: Facebook

Tancrède is thought to leave behind a partner, Tiphaine and a young daughter, Leonie, according to the tribute.

Friends and family thanked well-wishers for their messages of supporters and urged others to honour him on Sunday at 3pm in whichever way they see fit.

A message posted by Flying Frenchies said: "Light a candle, stretch a slackline, walk, meditate, drink vegetable juice or eat a tartare of fresh algae.

"Anything that can make sense to you and reminds you of his rich personality."