A RECORD number of people, including one of very our own reporters, plunged from 13,000 feet in a daring tandem skydive to raise cash for the Primrose Hospice.

Seven people made the jump at Hinton Airfield in Brackley on Saturday, September 23, with a further eight taking the plunge at Redlands Airfield in Swindon.

More than £8,000 was raised by those taking part, with Advertiser reporter Tom Davis among those freefalling at speeds of up to 120mph for a good cause.

Tom, who raised £456, said: “It was an incredible experience.

“The feeling you get when you are dangling your legs over the edge of the plane about to jump is like no other, but the experience is such a thrill and one I will never forget.

“To raise money for such a wonderful charity too is a brilliant feeling. I would definitely recommend it.”

Other skydivers included a team of three staff members from Bromsgrove firm Aspire Business Partnership.

Senior partner Alan Nolan said: “I was told that the ‘spirit of adventure’ is the continual willingness to meet and be moved by the unexpected, larger forces and possibilities in life.

“Quite simply, I didn’t have one. However, thanks to Primrose Hospice, I had the chance to embark on what I can only describe as the most exhilarating and emotional experience of my life, whilst at the same time raising money for such a great charity.”

Hospice fundraising manager Emma Williams added: “Everyone that took part all had huge smiles on their faces at the end which is just priceless.

“A parachute for Primrose not only raises valuable funds for us, but also makes dreams come true.

“We have our next ‘Parachute for Primrose’ event on June 16 where we are aiming for even bigger and better!”

The hospice, based on St Godwald's Road in Bromsgrove, supports people with life-limiting illnesses and their families across north Worcestershire.