INTREPID fundraisers took the plunge to raise thousands of pounds for a charity.
The daredevils from the Ellis Jones law firm in Ringwood successfully completed a skydive raising £4,611 for Julia’s House.
The stunt took place at Netheravon at the not-for-profit organisation – the Army Parachute Association (APA) situated near Salisbury.
Following training, the seven-strong team jumped from a modern Cessna Caravan aircraft at 13,500 feet (about two miles) above the Wiltshire countryside. They were in freefall at speeds of up to 120mph.
Team captain Georgina Wright said: “It was an absolutely exhilarating experience to do this skydive.
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“We all had a fantastic time, and the atmosphere was electric. Everyone was very nervous and excited in the build-up, but all were so thrilled afterwards.
“It was so heartening that we were able to raise such a good amount for this brilliant charity."
The team included Ellis Jones partner and head of dispute resolution, Lauren Day, marketing and events manager, Georgina Wright, legal placement student Howard Hasan, legal assistant Sandra Dakanyte and admin assistant Sam Smith plus friends and family members Sian Smith (wife of managing partner Nigel Smith) and Chris Holt.
Georgina added: “The charity provides frequent, flexible care for children with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition and support families in their own homes, in the community or at hospices and give their parents a much-needed break.”
Safe in the hands of the association’s military instructors, all participants landed safely.
The charity’s community fundraising assistant Alex Wilcox said: “We are indebted to the team from Ellis Jones and their supporters for such generosity. Corporate sponsorship enables us to make such a difference to so many families.
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“We rely on public donations, fundraising and legacies for 95 per cent of the money needed to run our vital service to ensure every family supported by Julia's House receives totally bespoke care.
She concluded: “Every penny counts, especially at this time when so many people are struggling to make ends meet and charitable donations may not be top of the agenda. That is why this community effort by Ellis Jones is so important.”
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