THE PRESIDENT of Hatherleigh Silver Band has raised a great sum of money for the musicians by parachuting from a plane — despite being afraid of heights!

Richard Brock, proprietor of Exbourne Cross Garage, wanted to raise money to help the band fund their recent trip to Harrogate for the final of the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain in September.

The jump raised a staggering £1,700 for the band, which was a well-deserved total, as Richard was reluctant to do anything too easy: 'I don't like heights — I hate rollercoasters — but I thought a parachute jump would be a challenge. I think all fundraising events should be a challenge.

'Standing in the doorway waiting to jump is a little daunting, but the free-falling part is actually really enjoyable. Hanging under the canopy for the last part was absolutely horrible though!'

Richard says he has a couple of ideas up his sleeve for next year to raise money for the band — who are hoping to compete in next year's final — but says he won't be jumping out of any more planes in a hurry.