A HEMYOCK couple will be taking fundraising to new heights when they perform a tandem parachute jump at Dunkeswell Aerodrome next month.

Self-employed farm hand Mark Dewar, 49, and his wife Alison, 37, are set to jump out of a plane on Sunday, July 14.

Mark said: “The aim is to raise funds to provide equipment to improve disabled accessibility at Victory House, Arc’s home for homeless ex-service personnel in Taunton.

“This all started after helping organise a series of talks given by an Australian ex-serviceman – aka Captain Krankypants – about his personal experience with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).

“While arranging the talk in Taunton I started talking to Arc, the Taunton homeless charity about Victory House.

“Unfortunately, my timing was wrong at the time as the talk I was arranging clashed with their programme at Victory House.” 

He added: “But after speaking with Rosie Hather and Tim, one of the support workers, I rather foolishly suggested a charity skydive.

“Following a meeting with the guys and the team at Victory House, Rob, one of the residents, a disabled ex-para wheelchair user, said he would join my wife and I in our fundraising attempt. Which I have to say is absolutely brilliant – and brave!

“We have been busily trying to get sponsorship from friends, family and neighbours for our endeavour. We currently have more than £1,600 promised.

“We have also managed to raise additional sponsorship from Mount Veterinery in Wellington and Andy Lehner of West of England Developments, to assist towards the cost of the jump.

“Rob’s jump is paid for but we are still trying to find additional sponsors, both for Arc and also to cover our jump costs.

“We also have an online donation page – www.justgiving.com/victoryhouseskydive