EIGHT fundraising women reached for the skies in a spectacular 10,000ft skydive fundraiser for a Cheshire cause.

On Saturday, June 5, the women took part in a Tandem Skydive in support of the Hospice of the Good Shepherd, raising over £7,000 with sponsorship still coming in.

With beautiful weather, those who took part at Skydive Tilstock in Whitchurch were treated to spectacular views as far as Snowdon. They exited the plane at 10,000ft and experienced an amazing and exhilarating free-fall before their parachute opening at 5,000ft and them gently floating down to the ground.

Denise McCarthy, who took part, said: “I have always wanted to do a Tandem Skydive and in celebration of me being cancer free for 11 years I decided now is the time and what better way to do it than to raise money for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd at the same time.

"The weather was perfect and it was an experience I will never forget. My friends and family came along to support me on the day and three of them have signed up to take part next year. I thoroughly recommend doing a skydive to everyone”.

Alison Dunbar, individual giving and digital fundraising officer at The Hospice of the Good Shepherd, said: “We would like to thank Alicia Eaton-Todd, Alison Mason, Alison Thomson, Rhiannon Thomson, Denise McCarthy, Angela Potts, Julie Gilfoyle and Lisa Waterhouse for their valued support.

"It was such a pleasure to be there on the day of their skydive and share the experience with them.

"Although a few were feeling nervous before their jump, they all had beaming smiles and a great sense of achievement afterwards. I think one or two of them may even take it up as a hobby they loved it that much.

"As with all charities, the last 18 months has been a difficult time and we are very grateful to everybody who has challenged themselves in order to raise funds for the Hospice, we couldn’t do it without you!”

If you would like to take part in a Tandem Skydive in support of the Hospice, call 01244 851811 or email alison.dunbar@hospicegs.com.

As with so many charities, the hospice in Backford is currently facing difficult financial times ahead due to the continuing impact of the coronavirus and is having to find new and innovative ways to raise funds to ensure the hospice can continue to deliver its essential end of life care to the community.