A Llanfyllin woman is set to celebrate becoming an octogenarian by taking a leap of out of a plane, and raise money for a cause close to her heart.

Jane Jones will celebrate her 80th birthday this year and to mark the occasion she is doing a tandem skydive for charity on Saturday, June 27 at Tilstock Airfield, outside Whitchurch.

Over the years, Jane has organised and taken part in various fundraising charity events including walking, cycling, silence knitting, ladies’ football and cricket.

She is taking on the skydive to raise money for Dementia research as, two years after celebrating their golden wedding anniversary, her husband, Leonard, developed Dementia.

Leonard is well-known throughout the community as he was a local builder, a keen sportsman, lover of music, dancing and socialising.

Jane said: "Dementia, which currently affects 850,000 people in the UK, has made a huge impact on the whole family.

"At times, I experience frustration, anger, denial, sadness and loneliness.

"However, medication, keeping to a routine – being active, together with family support – keeps Len happy and 'living for the moment'.

"I am hoping to make as much money as possible from her skydive for Dementia research through the Alzheimers Society, who offer support and raise awareness, as they try to find a solution for a disease that claims one new case, in the UK, every three minutes."

Jane's most recent fundraiser was an exciting driving challenge at Cosford Airfield in Shropshire.

Participants could choose from a selection of vehicles and Jane started with a Mini and went up to an articulated lorry. The weekend event was great fun for the participants but most importantly raised a huge amount of money for charity.

Anyone wishing to donate can send a cheque payable to “Alzheimer’s Society” and send it to: Jane Jones, 21 Maes Myllin, Llanfyllin, SY22 5DQ or online at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/iamorganisingmyownskydive2020-janejones