THE chairman of Cardigan’s British Heart Foundation branch has raised over £9,000 for Wales’ top heart charity by skydiving to celebrate his 65th birthday,

Pete Barker decided to skydive to raise funds for the charity so that he could celebrate his 65th birthday in a different way.

More money has come in recently which has taken the total over £9,000.

“The aim was to raise £5,000 and I kick-started raising funds through money donated for my birthday presents,” said Pete.

“It was quite scary as we took off from Swansea Airport and rapidly climbed to 1,200 feet, and when we jumped, it was into a thick blanket of cloud.

“We went into freefall for eight seconds at 150mph before our chute deployed, allowing us to glide over Swansea Bay in beautiful sunlight.

“We then began a rapid descent back to the airfield where my family were delighted and relieved to see me land safely.

“I am so pleased to have raised over £9,000 and would like to thank my friends and family for all their support and contribution so that I can donate this money for lifesaving research by BHF scientists."

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