On Saturday 31st July I arrived at Grindale Parachute Centre to make my first ever solo parachute jump. After completing my 6 hours training on a previous date I was all ready to go that morning and the weather was perfect for me.

All my friends and family were there to support me and I even got to help pack my canopy before jumping. I got all kitted up and ready to go along with another beginner, Rachel, who had spent the day training with me previously. She had managed to get one jump ahead of me so this was her second.

We went in the aircraft with Tracy, the instructor, who kept our nerves away as best she could by entertaining us on the way to 3,500 feet – which seemed to take no time at all.

When the door opened all my nerves disappeared and my training kicked in – feet out, head up and GO!! All I saw was the plane disappearing and then my canopy was open. It all happened so fast it took my breath away but it was a fantastic experience.

No time to enjoy the scenery, down to business finding the landing area and navigating my way back. The ground came rushing up at me and before I knew I hit the deck – literally! Ouch! I knew right away that my ankle was broken but all I could do was wait to be rescued.

Luckily there were plenty of staff and experienced jumpers to come and carry me back to the hanger. With a big smile on my face still, I got a round of applause from the watching crowd. The paramedic and hospital staff were fantastic and I was in plaster within a couple of hours.

Now almost fully recovered, I’m not sure when my next jump will be, if ever, but I am overwhelmed by the support I received and the amount I have raised for this well deserved charity.

I wish you all the best – keep up the fantastic work, I know this money will be put to good use.

John Benson

John has raised £1736.50 for CRY