The expression “down to earth” refers to someone who by nature keeps their feet on the ground. This certainly wasn’t the case for 15 people on Saturday 23rd April. These brave people ventured to Bridlington on the east of coast of Yorkshire to attempt a 10,00ft tandem parachute jump in aid of Caring For Life.

Each person had pledged to raise at least £400 (including the cost of the jump) towards the work of CFL. The event proved very popular, with all the places being filled quickly and a surplus waiting for the event to happen again in the summer.

The weather in Yorkshire, sometimes unpredictable, held strong, with all the participants being able to see clear views of the coastline along with seeing the beauty of the Yorkshire countryside.

The event was held at the British Skysports Paracentre in Bridlington. The centre can be found down a bumpy track not too dissimilar from the lane leading to Crag House Farm. Nick, the owner, was there to greet everyone with a nice smile. The jump began with about 20 minutes of instruction and then off to a Cessna 206 light aircraft before taking off to the heights of 10,000 ft. A couple of last minute instructions and then it was time to get ready. With the instructor behind, he nudged his way forward towards the door. Each participant was told to cross their arms and tuck their feet under the plane and then it was time to go, descending 5000ft in freefall at speeds of up to 120mph before the canopy opened. As they descended, small rainbows appeared on the clouds they floated through. By pulling left and right on the ropes, they circled round. Many commented that it had felt like floating in the air.

The worries of “what happens if the parachute fails” were taken away by the beauty and awesomeness of God’s creation. The prayers of many were answered by everyone having a safe landing.

The experience was described as amazing, invigorating, and absolutely fantastic; many were speechless after the event. One lady said she could have stayed up there all day, so exhilarating was the experience. Some have expressed a wish to do the jump again! If you would like to join them, then please contact the PR team here at Caring For Life to receive your fundraising pack and enjoy the wonder of creation from the sky, whilst also raising valuable funds for Caring For Life.