A DAREDEVIL grandmother is set to fulfill her bucket list by doing a wing walk for charity.
Valerie Appleton, of Ilkley, who is in her 79th year, will be wing walking on June 19th at Church Fenton, Leeds East Airfield.
She is taking to the skies to raise money for the LS29 Special Needs Support Group.
Valerie, who is a member of Christchurch and a volunteer at Dan's Den soft play centre, where she meets many LS29 families, said: "I remember as a young girl watching the movie 'Flying Down to Rio' with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers. I was so impressed at the showgirls dancing on the wings of the bi planes. Not understanding at that time that it wasn't real as in most Hollywood productions it is faked with special effects. However, as a dancer it did appeal to my vivid imagination as a possibility. Years later I have still have my dream! I have enjoyed a balloon ride, parasailed many times, countless rollercoasters, Zipped the Cow and done two skydives, one in Lincolnshire and the last one in Texas.
"A surprise birthday present last year from my youngest son has now made the dream possible. In my mind I was saving it for my 80th year but this wonderful gift has enabled me to plan it earlier. The date is booked and my wish is to pass it forward and try to raise money to support LS29, a charity that is local and needs support. They do not receive any monies and it is totally dependant on charitable efforts from parents and local people. I am appealing for any support from the community."
The money raised by Val will be used to fund an adventure holiday. This will enable the children supported by LS29 to enjoy a holiday catered to their needs and to experience zip wires and other activities.
LS29 Group is a registered charity for families who have children and young people with additional needs who live in the local area, offering support, activities and fun.
The charity's inclusive holiday club, LS29 Time, provides specialist care in the school holidays and respite for parents and carers.
It was set up and is run by parents of children with special needs and as a voluntary group it relies on kind donations and the generous support of funding partners.
To support Val in her fundraising visit: https://gofund.me/87709a02
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