A former Ryde Junior School sports teacher has celebrated the start of her 70th year by taking to the skies for a daring wing walk in aid of Sporting Opportunities.
Denise Shepherd decided to mark the milestone with the airborne challenge while raising money for the charity.
She contacted Sporting Opportunities trustee and coach Deborah Percy ahead of the challenge to explain her plans and her wish to support the organisation through her fundraising.
Denise and her husband are members of the Island’s Caravanning Club, with fellow members turning out to support her as she prepared to take to the skies.
The wing walk was carried out with Ethel Dares Wing Walking, with wing-walking specialist Stephen and pilot Martyn overseeing the experience.
After being strapped into position on the aircraft, Denise took to the air before returning safely to the ground, where she was greeted by cheers from those who had gathered to support her.
But the 70-year-old’s adventures are not over yet.
Having completed her first wing walk, Denise is already planning to take on a more advanced experience involving steeper turns, increased G-forces and more energetic manoeuvres.
Deborah Percy, Sporting Opportunities trustee and coach, has said:
“Your courage, enthusiasm and determination are truly inspiring.”
Money raised through Denise’s challenge will support Sporting Opportunities.
Those wishing to support her fundraising can do so through her JustGiving page.
