AN 80-year-old Winsford woman, with a fear of heights, has marked her milestone birthday by taking part in a charity skydive where she jumped out of a plane at 10,000ft.

Vera Rogers raised an incredible £1,661 and was joined by nine other participants who put their fears aside to raise money for St Luke’s Hospice.

The former Fords of Winsford employee was the first of the group to jump and admits the event surpassed her expectations.

“It was fantastic, I was on a high all day,” Vera said.

“I was nervous to begin with but as soon as I was on the plane, I calmed down and enjoyed every minute.

“The skydiving team were brilliant and I can’t thank them enough. I’m so happy that I did it and I’d like to thank everyone who made it happen and who has helped me to raise such a wonderful amount for an amazing charity.”

Friends and family enjoyed the day cheering on their loved ones and having featured in the Guardian prior to the skydive, Vera was overwhelmed by the support in the build up to her skydive.

Vera added: “It has been incredible, people who didn’t even know me wanted to help - people’s generosity has blown me away.”

A generous Winsfordian heard of Vera’s challenge and not only got in touch to donate a pound for every year of her age, but also turned up on the day to wish her luck.

Vera’s daughter drove up from Leicester to surprise her on the day and her grandson, who was a little hesitant about his Grandma taking to the skies, proudly stood waiting with his handmade ‘go grandma, go’ banner.

Sally Rowley, St Luke’s events co-ordinator, said: “There was a real buzz of excitement and it was great to watch everyone complete their challenge. Everyone that took part had a different connection to the hospice and it was really special to capture those personal moments with their friends and family.”

There’s no stopping Vera and despite having a fear of heights, she has already signed up to St Luke’s next challenge event, abseiling down Liverpool Cathedral this August.

Vera says her secret to staying young is keeping fit and staying active. She enjoys line dancing, Zumba classes and daily sessions at the gym.

The funds raised will go directly towards patient care at the hospice, which cares for people from mid and south Cheshire, suffering from cancer and other life threatening illnesses.