Irish diver Sean McGahern, 35, who used Malta to break the world record for the longest open seawater dive will next year bid to become the first person ever to circumnavigate Gozo underwater.

Mr McGahern, who broke the Guinness World Record for the longest open saltwater dive off the coast of Westin Dragonara Resort's Reef Club last September, will attempt to break his 27-hour underwater stay during his circumnavigation, while travelling the longest-ever distance submerged in seawater.

The triple world record attempt is due to take place in the summer of 2011 and he has been given the official go-ahead by Guinness World Records.

Having lived in Malta for 14 years in the past, Mr McGahern is on a short stay here to raise sponsorship money for next year's attempt.

Last year, he was engaged in a clean-up of the seabed and offered specialised courses in underwater navigation, mapping, buoyancy and photography. He also dived in aid of the Aquatic Environment Protection Charity.

In September's stunt, he had originally planned to remain underwater for 40 hours at a depth of 15 metres, however the attempt was cut down to 30 hours due to technical issues. He managed to do 27 hours, which was still enough to break the previous world record by three hours.