Creche landing for parachutist (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Creche landing for parachutist

Michael Hillier and instructor Brian Poole descendA 78-year-old funeral director dropped out of the sky and came to earth in a Wanborough field.

He landed on his feet to a round of applause from his friends in the Rotary Club.

Michael Hillier, director of Hillier Funeral Services in Victoria Road, had fallen 11,000ft but fortunately he was attached to a parachute.

And his bravery will go a long way towards raising the necessary cash for a creche at Swellendam in South Africa.

He said: "It was absolutely excellent. It was a bit terrifying when I was sat on the edge waiting to go.

"I'd do it again if the opportunity arose.

"As with anything strange I didn't know what to expect, but it was fantastic.

"Before the jump I gave everybody a running commentary on where everything was.

"We went over the Savernake Forest and we could see as far as Bristol."

Fortunately for Mr Hillier, and the Rotary Club who were treating themselves to a pig roast below, they had chosen a beautifully warm and clear August evening.

Mr Hillier, of Broome Manor, jumped in tandem with instructor Brian Poole, at Redland Farm airfield.

Mr Poole said: "I do admire Mr Hillier. When I'm his age I will be sat by the fire with my slippers and pipe.

"But this is an increasing trend for the elderly.

"Tandem skydiving is available to anyone young, old and infirm. Elderly people see it as being able to compete with youth in generating funds for good causes."

Mr Hillier is no stranger to daredevil stunts.

While most people are content to lounge on a beach during their holidays, three years ago he abseiled down a 250ft cliff in South Africa.

He obviously has a good head for heights as he once trekked 18,000 ft up Mount Everest.

Michael and his wife Ruth, 74, who have three children and six grandchildren, once parachuted off a cliff in Switzerland.

Mrs Hillier, speaking before Sunday's jump, was unperturbed by her husband's imminent leap.

She said; "I'm not worried. I should think the jump will be fantastic, and the view should be great."

Byron Carron, chairman of the international committee of Swindon Rotary Club, was very impressed by Mr Hillier's achievement in helping to raise so much money.

In his judgement members of the club had given 'wonderful support'.

He said: "They will have raised the £1,900 required for our share of the £6,500 required for the creche.

"The rest will be met by matching grants and Rotary headquarters." The creche will provide schooling for 100 children near Cape Town.

To contribute send a donation to the Rotary Club of Swindon, c/o treasurer Mark Suddaby, Swindon Advertiser, 100 Victoria road, Swindon SN1 3BE.

Dave Andrew