AN 80-year-old man joined staff from a retirement home in Chippenham as they jumped out of a plane at 10,000 feet to raise money for its amenities fund.

Brian Boyce, from Kington Langley, whose wife Jacqueline, 79, lives at The Fairways Retirement Village, joined four members of staff as they jumped out of an aeroplane at Wanborough Airfield near Swindon.

He heard about the fundraiser and was keen to get involved himself and help the care home which has helped his wife, who has dementia.

Mr Boyce, senior carer Hannah Mason, carers Karen Maidment and Diane Shearmon and maintenance worker Chris Baker took the leap of faith and raised over £2500 for the amenities fund, which enables residents to take part in a range of activities within the home and go on day trips.

Mr Boyce said: “I enjoyed being there and the whole atmosphere.

“It was a tremendous 80th birthday.

“As the husband of one of the residents I appreciate them very much.

“They not only look after the residents but they look after me.”

Ms Maidment who had only flown in a plane for the first time last year, wanted to do something for a good cause.

She said: “I was more excited than anything even though I only flew in a plane for the first time last year and now I have jumped out of one.

“I didn’t even stop to think what I was doing, I just thought this is beautiful. It was amazing.

“It is a great feeling to know I have done a bit extra to help them.”

Mr Baker added: “They don’t give you a chance to get nervous, you are sat down and then off you go,

“There was so much adrenaline in my legs they went like jelly afterwards.”

Home manager Elaine Andrews is extremely proud of her staff and Mr Boyce after the August 4 jump.

She said: “I am extremely proud of them and I am privileged to work with such a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who wanted to go above and beyond for our residents.”

“We are really pleased Brian took part.”