Daventry Express reporter Gemma Ellis will face up to one of her biggest fears by doing a charity skydive in aid of The Jago Worrall Foundation.
The 23-year-old – who has a fear of flying – will be joining in the parachute jump organised by the Evergreen Art Cafe in Sheaf Street and Axillium based at the iCon centre.
It is due to be held on Monday, August 26 at London Skydive Centre near Banbury and she will join a team of seven people jumping 10,000 feet.
Speaking about the prospect, Gemma said: “I am really very nervous about this challenge.
“I hate flying so throwing myself out a plane is going to take a really big effort, but I am happy to do it.
“Jago’s story has touched the hearts of everyone in the newsroom and we all want to do our bit to help the family.”
The foundation was set up in the aftermath of an accident at his home in Welton which saw him suffer severe brain injuries after nearly drowning.
His parents Barney and Lyn have recently brought him home after a year of specialist care but need to raise up to £200,000 to enable him to maintain his recovery and treatment at home.
Gemma said: “I haven’t ever skydived before and I know I will be a bag of nerves on the run up but it’s going to be so worth it.
“Now I just need as many people as possible to get behind me with sponsorship. I would be grateful to anyone for their support.”
The Daventry Express launched a campaign to help raise the funds at the start of the year. A quiz night held in March raised £600 and there are future plans for an art and wine evening, on June 13, golf day at Staverton Park Hotel and a charity dinner dance and auction in the future.
Anyone looking to sponsor Gemma can visit {http://www.justgiving.com/Gemma-Ellis2|just giving|sponsor Gemma} or drop into our offices at 63 High Street, Daventry and fill out the sponsorship form.