Daredevil great-gran jumps to it
A GREAT-GRANDMA has proved you’re never too old to be an adrenaline junkie - after jumping out of a plane at 11,000ft.
Shirley McConnell, 82, fulfilled a long-standing ambition by taking part in a tandem skydive for charity.
She passed a medical with flying colours so completed the parachute jump - which included thousands of feet of freefall - to raise money for the Huntington’s Disease Association.
Following her daredevil experience Shirley, of Marsden Road in Romiley, said: “I’d always wanted to have a go but not had the chance until now. I’ve always liked flying and I feel I wanted to do it before I got too old.
“The thought that a nice young man was safely holding me was good and reassuring too. You are never too old.”
Joining Shirley at the skydive, in Lancaster, were her grandson Alex McConnell, 30 and his fiancee Tara Goldsmith, 28.
They were raising money for the Huntington’s Disease Association as Tara’s family carries the genetic brain condition.
It has already claimed her dad’s life and a test revealed that she also has the condition.
Their target of raising £1,000 has now been reached but further donations can be given.
Shirley, a former receptionist, has remained active since retiring, being a keen walker and gardener.
Anyone wishing to donate to the cause can visit www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/hdaskydive.