A mother who hates heights is to take part in a charity parachute jump for the Sobell House hospice in Oxford, thanks to the Oxford Mail.

Michelle Brown, 26, above, decided to take the plunge after seeing an advertisement for volunteers in our pages.

She has set herself a target of £1,000 before the jump on June 16 at RAF Weston-on-the-Green, near Bicester, and has so far raised nearly £600.

Miss Brown, of Teal Close, Greater Leys, who has a two-year-old daughter, Tia, said: "When I saw this advertised in the Oxford Mail I thought I could raise money and do something I've wanted to do.

"My grandfather, Dick Brown, died of cancer in Sobell House eight years ago so it is a cause close to my own heart. But I'm nervous because I don't like heights, so I must be mad."

Anyone who would like to sponsor Miss Brown can contact her on 01865 724733.