AN 84-YEAR-OLD Laverstock man celebrated his birthday with a daredevil challenge - a tandem skydive.

John Read says he had fancied doing a skydive for a number of years but finally made up his mind to do it and raise money for the Stars Appeal and St Andrews Church in Laverstock.

“It was a bit scary to start with but I managed it alright,” said Mr Read. “As soon as the parachute opened it all went quiet.”

“People said to me I must be mad to do that.”

Mr Read, who has lived in Laverstock for 65 years, says a highlight was taking in the lovely views adding: “I did enjoy it.”

He has raised just over £500 for the two causes. Mr Read chose to support the Stars Appeal in memory of his wife Mildred who had breast cancer.