Scout leader takes to the skies to raise funds

Derrin Berry, pictured, who is an assistant leader for 1st Fordingbridge Scouts, completed a tandem parachute jump at Netheravon on February 8.

He has raised about £2,200 with gift aid towards the £28,000 needed to replace the roof of the scout group’s ageing HQ at Round Hill.

He said: “I really enjoyed the jump. I was concerned that at the two mile height it would be really cold - I think it was about minus eight. However, I think the adrenalin took over as I didn't notice it.

“The free fall was at about 130mph and the noise and the wind hitting my face was unbelievable.

“When the chute opened it went calm and quiet. I was able to talk with Kenny, the other half of my tandem.

“The total jump took about seven minutes and we were the first tandem jump of the year, and the first flight of the year.”

The cost of the jump was donated by HWS Aluminium in Fordingbridge, which means all the money raised goes to the new roof appeal.

It was the first time Derrin had taken part in a parachute jump and he says he would recommend it to anyone.

“The staff at Netheravon were brilliant and looked after me very well with the training and the jump. The weather was perfect, so I went up at about 9.30am and it was all over by 10am,” he added. “It was a fantastic experience, I was lucky to be able to do it and raise money in the process.”

On raising more than £2,000 for the appeal Derrin, who runs SJC, said: “It is fantastic and humbling as it was largely my customer base that have made donations.”

He thanked everybody for their generous donations to the roof appeal.

More than £10,000 has been committed and raised for the new roof. However, more sponsors are needed to help the scout group meet their fundraising target.

To make a donation go to 1st Fordingbridge Scout Group’s Just Giving page at justgiving.com/lastminutescout.

Alternatively, call acting group chairman Martin Smethers on 01425 652196 or 07860 352279.