Charities grateful to Mayor for parachute jump

Jack Glenn, President of Foyle Branch of the society, commented. "We are grateful to the Mayor for his efforts to raise funds for our charity."

Sadie Riley from HURT - which is also to reap the benefits of the charity jump - is also delighted the Mayor is going to such lengths for charity.

She commented: "I would like to thank the Mayor for offering to do the parachute jump to raise money for HURT, especially as we know he is not too fond of heights! We are also grateful for all the other fundraising activities that have taken place throughout the year."

With just a week left to prepare for his "big jump," the Mayor is appealing to the public to dig deep into their pockets and support his chosen charities HURT and the Foyle branch of Parkinson's Disease Society.

Mayor Fleming will be taking to the skies at the weekend. Speaking ahead of his challenge the Mayor admits to being a bit apprehensive but is hoping that with the support of the people of the city he can enjoy the whole experience.

"As the time draws closer I have to admit I am getting a bit nervous. It will be a real challenge for me but I am determined to do it.

"The feedback I have received from my family, friends, work colleagues and the wider public has been tremendous, everyone has been great and very supportive.

"People who want to help can do so by sponsoring me and help me to raise much needed funds for the two worthy local charities," he said.

The Mayor will be joined by representatives from each charity for the jump - Eddie Lynn, Fiona McDermott and Hester Glen.

The jump will take place at the Wild Geese Skydiving Centre in Garvagh on 22 May. The event comes following the highly successful Mayor's Appeal Variety concert held at the City Hotel last month which attracted huge audiences who enjoyed local musical and dance performances.

Anyone wishing to sponsor the Mayor can contact his office within Derry City Council in 028 7137 6508. Alternatively, both charities will also be accepting sponsorship from their offices and have set up Just Giving web based accounts where people can make donations directly. Further details on sponsorship, the parachute jump are all available at www.derrycity.gov.uk/mayorsappeal