Skydiver overcomes his fear of heights
STUART PIKE
APLUCKY policeman overcame his fear of heights to brave a skydive in aid of disadvantaged youngsters.
Police constable Zak Khan, 24, jumped 15,000ft after collecting sponsorship to support the work of The Children’s Society.
The former St Christopher’s High School pupil has smashed his £1,000 fundraising target after taking the plunge Black Knights Parachute Centre in Cockerham.
He has now raised £1,590 which will go towards supporting the most vulnerable children across the country who are experiencing issues such as neglect, hardship and abuse.
The police officer has supported The Children’s Society since 2015 when he became a Corporate Ambassador for the charity, helping to raise awareness and support amongst local businesses by organising and taking part in events.
After completing his personal challenge Zak, who grew up in Oswaldtwistle and lived in the town until moving to Maidstone last year, described the experience as “exhilarating.”
He said: “I’m terrified of heights but I always wanted to skydive so I decided to bite the bullet and sign up to fall out of the skies for a good cause.
“I’ve supported The Children’s Society for a long time and I know about all the important work they do to change young people’s lives so I’m glad the money raised will go towards their great work.”
He added: “I was so anxious going up in the plane but after I jumped it was just amazing. Totally exhilarating and I will never forget it!”
Reena Ruda, The Children’s Society’s challenge event coordinator, said: “Zak was really courageous and deserves to be really proud of his achievement, and we are so grateful for the impressive fundraising he has achieved.”
The charity works directly with vulnerable young people up and down the county, and in Lancashire runs services such as Street Safe, which helps children and young people who are at risk of being sexually exploited or going missing.
Zak’s online sponsorship page can be viewed at https://www. justgiving.com/ fundraising/zak-khan1