DARING fundraisers threw themselves out of planes from 13,000ft as they helped raise money for a children's hospice. 

The brave feat saw 28 fundraisers, including seven from Colchester-based business The New Homes Group, take the plunge for East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH).

More than £14,500 was raised. 

The skydive, which took place in Beccles, saw Colchester resident Sally Knights, bravely take part.

Her 18-month-old son Henry, who has a type of brain injury called hypoxic-ischemic-encephalopathy (HIE), receives care and support at EACH's dedicated children's hospice, The Treehouse.

Sally said: "What a surreal experience.

"It was an honour to jump out of a plane alongside Henry's granny and great aunty, alongside all the other jumpers raising funds and awareness for EACH.

"It’s definitely not something I’ll forget in a hurry."

Other participants included were father and daughter duo Alan Green and Louise Trotman.

Alan's wife, Linda, is a dedicated volunteer at the EACH shop in Frinton.

Alan, 74, said: "It was a truly awesome experience, and we were blessed with a beautiful day and perfect conditions.

"The team made us welcome and totally at ease about what was to come.

"My instructor and the videographer gave me a day to remember, from the moment we took off and started climbing to jumping out of the plane and then freefalling.

"To touch down smoothly was a real adrenaline-rush, and, most importantly, between us, we raised more than £2,000 for EACH."

The event also saw brothers Alfie and Tommy Issom, from Great Ryburgh.

Their one-year-old brother, Luke, who was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and Down Syndrome, receives care at The Nook.

Ellie Miller, EACH senior community fundraiser, said: "I was over the moon with the way it went.

"It was a lovely day filled with joy, and everyone was in high spirits and on such a high afterwards.

"The adrenaline was clearly pumping, and they were on cloud nine, feeling proud of themselves, and rightly so.

"It’s phenomenal, and we’re so grateful for everyone’s support."

More skydives are planned for next year, on April 26 and September 20, 2025. More information can be found via each.org.uk.