Free-falling idea gathers momentum for Littlehampton’s Raydar

Following a shock donation of £3,500 shortly before Christmas, and the move into the group’s new headquarters, in Arcade Road last month, Raydar chairman Helen McCondach says the next step forward is a plunge from 15,000ft.

Helen’s husband Peter, 42, came up with the idea of a charity skydive after a brainstorming session at the pub with friends.

Helen, 29, of East Ham Road, said: “There might have been a bit of alcohol-induced bravado, yes. But Pete’s sticking with it.

“He’s already signed up for the sky dive, so there’s no backing out now.”

The group, which helps families, children and young people cope with an array of disabilities, is now urging more people to give their support, and take part in the fund-raising fall in May.

“Now we have got our own building, we need some money to help run the services we provide,” explained Helen. “It’s a case of keeping that momentum going.”

Helen added that last year’s generous gift of £3,500 just days before Christmas, by an anonymous donor, had helped Raydar more than she, or any of the charity’s five other volunteers, could have possibly imagined.

“We were all so overwhelmed by the kindness someone showed us. From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank whoever gave us this gift.

“Words can’t describe what you have done for us,” she said.

Applicants wishing to take part in the charity sky dive must raise a minimum of £350 and weigh less than 18 stone.

The plunge will take place in the sky above Salisbury on May 10.

For more information, call Helen on 07599108718 or visit the charity’s Facebook page, Raydar.