THREE brave young women are doing a sponsored parachute jump today to raise funds for Age UK Mid Devon’s work at the Haven Centre in Tiverton.

Olivia Butt, Teresa Daveridge and Sophie Bridgeman will leap out of a plane at 15,000ft before their tandem partner pulls the cord on their parachutes and they float safely to the ground.

Their daredevil skydive will take place at Dunkeswell Aerodrome in East Devon.

Doing the jump to raise funds for Age UK Mid Devon was the idea of Olivia, a student who volunteered at the centre as part of her college course.

Olivia, 19, said: “I really enjoy my time here.

“It’s really rewarding meeting and being with all the different clients.”

The centre puts on a wide and varied programme of events, some of which – such as a chance for clients to have a look at a collection of spiders and snakes – stuck in Olivia’s mind.

She said: “The animal exhibitions – where people come in and show off exciting animals – I really liked that. The museum visits regularly as well, so I learn a lot.”

Centre manager Simone Phillips said: “Having Olivia volunteering with us was fantastic – for the clients and for the staff.

“She is bubbly and outgoing, and the clients loved having her there.

“She’s a great example of what the Haven Centre stands for -– fun, caring, and really focused on making everyone feel special.”

Olivia added: “I really enjoy seeing how much the clients love what we do here, and it’s just really nice to see them enjoy it.”

All the money raised from the jump will go towards providing activities at the centre.

Clients will be cheering on Olivia, Teresa and Sophie – safe from the comfort of their chairs.

Simone added: “Rather them than me.

“I’ll stick to the ground.”

Age UK Mid Devon is always pleased to talk to potential volunteers, particularly those looking to gain experience of care work and working with older people.

It offers full training and can support volunteers in finding out more about the sector as part of their voluntary role.

To find out more, ring the centre on 01884 51213 or email enquiries@ageukmiddevon.org.uk.

There is still time to sponsor Olivia, Teresa and Sophie by visiting www.givey.com/ageukmiddevon.