A thrill-seeking 90-year-old has celebrated her birthday – in what some would call an unconventional manner for her age – by skydiving, and raising £5,000 for a homeless charity in the process.
Shirley Robinson, from Long Clawson in Leicestershire, jumped out of a plane at 14,000ft for the fundraiser at Skydive Langar in Nottinghamshire.
Shirley, who was diagnosed with chronic leukaemia in 2022, raised funds for Crisis, a charity that provides help and support for homeless people.
She told BBC News, “It’s just wonderful how generous people have been. It’s lovely.”
Footage of her dive saw Shirley styled in a bright blue jumpsuit as she was cheered on by family and friends before getting on the plane.
She smiled and waved at the camera as she was strapped to her skydiving instructor.
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After Shirley’s adrenaline packed skydive, she landed safely in a field and can be heard in the video exclaiming, “That was wonderful.”
When asked about her favourite part of the experience, she responded, “That was lovely, going through the clouds.”
She confessed afterwards that the free fall was a “bit breathtaking” but she “loved it” before thanking her instructor for looking after her.
Shirley returned to a hero’s welcome with her beaming friends and family congratulating her.
A spokesperson for the charity said, “We want to say an enormous thank you to Shirley for the incredible amount of money she has raised.
“Shirley’s donation will provide vital support for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We’re so grateful.”
Image credit: Instagram
This article first appeared on Over60.