A group of 10 daredevil fundraisers took the plunge in a festive skydive to raise more than £11,000 for hospice care.
The challenge took place on Saturday, December 5 and saw each skydiver soar to around 10,000ft before parachuting safely back to earth – dressed as Santa Claus.
Each group member signed-up for the Santa Skydive to raise funds for St Richard’s Hospice, which cares for patients and their loved ones in Worcestershire.
Altogether, their individual fundraising efforts have raised £11,018 for the hospice.
Tricia Cavell, Fundraising Director at St Richard’s, said: “We had an incredible day on Saturday and are so proud of the team for taking on such an amazing challenge for our care.
“The total raised by the group so far has blown us away, and we are grateful to each person for their hard work raising money to support our hospice care.
“After what has been such a challenging year for so many, this is a fantastic example of the wonderful support of our community who have continued to be there for us through the pandemic.”
Among the group was Steve Baker who took on his second skydive of the year in memory of his partner Sarah, who was cared for by the hospice before she died just before Christmas last year.
On the day, Steve was joined by his brother, Kevin, who also took on the skydive challenge. So far, with help from supporters including his brother, Steve has raised more than £6,200.
“Having completed a skydive in October, and seeing how much money had been raised in Sarah’s memory, it took very little thought for me to sign up for a second skydive, this time dressed as Santa,” said Steve.
“We were blessed with lovely clear blue skies, although it was a bit chilly. There was a mixture of excitement and apprehension within the group, but we were comforted knowing we were in safe hands with the instructors.
“When you come back down to earth you are pumped with adrenaline – there is no other feeling like it! The beaming smiles from everyone were either euphoria or relief it’s over!
“For me the second jump was as good as the first, and has inspired me to sign up for a skydiving course in the spring.
“I’m proud of the money I’ve raised and have kept my promise to Sarah. St Richard’s is a wonderful organisation. The compassion, kindness and care they provide is beyond words. I am, and will always be, indebted to them.”
To find out about other upcoming hospice events and challenges, visit www.strichards.org.uk/events