Skydiving Rebecca in need of sponsors

From the archive, first published Friday 26th Jan 2007.

Charity champion Rebecca Green is seeking sponsors for her latest fundraising endeavour - a skydive from 15,000ft.

As reported in the Telegraph & Argus, Rebecca, who works for Specsavers Opticians, Shipley, decided to learn sign language to help her communicate with deaf customers in the Market Square store.

Now the 20-year-old, of Wrose, has turned her attention to Specsavers' nominated charity Guide Dogs for the Blind, and volunteered for a tandem jump at Hibaldstow Airfield, North Lincolnshire.

She is now looking for people to help her raise money for the charity, which relies entirely on donations from the public to continue its vital work in the community.

Debbie Wheeler, spokesman for the Yorkshire branch of Guide Dogs for the Blind says: "We are delighted Rebecca has chosen to support our cause. It costs £10 a day to train, breed and support each guide dog throughout its lifetime and with no Government funding, it is only with the support and generosity of local people and businesses that we can continue our work with blind and partially-sighted people in the local area."

Rebecca will be taking the plunge on May 6 and is hoping warm-hearted sponsors will pledge their cash to fund her latest attempt to make a difference to people's lives.

Store director Bhrat Phakey said: "It is a real pleasure to work with a young lady so committed to helping those less fortunate than herself, and we are behind Rebecca 100 per cent."

Anyone would like to help Rebecca, can do so in person at the firm's Shipley branch or contact (01274) 535390.