Charity skydive will be worth the weight for Vicky

VICKY Reade from Penhill is battling the bulge to raise vital funds for Prospect Hospice in memory of her late grandfather Mervyn Penny. Mervyn was a well known folk musician from Highworth who formed The White Horse Folk Club and ran it for 14 years, as well as playing the main stage at many international folk festivals. In his later years he had a strong fan base in retirement homes around the town, and was often seen busking on the streets of Swindon. Sadly, Mervyn passed away last year, aged 91, but to keep his spirit alive and passion for supporting Prospect Hospice, Vicky is preparing to do a tandem parachute jump to raise funds for the charity. For most people overcoming the fear of jumping from an aircraft at 10,000 feet is one thing, but Vicky has been facing up to the extra challenge of shedding two stone to comply with the strict weight limit on who can make a jump. Vicky started her training in September and has lost a stone and a half by going to the gym, spinning classes and attending Shin-Splints Running Club. With another 7lbs to lose she is approaching her goal. Vicky said: “I’ve got just half a stone to go to reach my target weight for the parachute jump on Sunday 22 March. I’m keen to beat this though and lose at least another stone. “I’m really excited to complete this personal challenge and I’m determined to raise a minimum of £400 for Prospect Hospice. As well as the jump I’m organising other activities too, such as doing a car boot sale to boost funds.” Support Vicky’s challenge and donate to Prospect Hospice at: justgiving.com/vicky-reade