A pest control worker jumped out of a plane to raise money for disabled children.

Arina Novikova, 27, from Purley, hurtled through the skies at 140mph to make £450 for the Children’s Trust Tadworth.

The trust, which helps children with brain injuries, multiple disabilities and complex health needs, is the sponsored charity of her employer, Cleankill Environmental Services.

Arina, a sales worker, said: "I am very pleased to have reached my target of £450. To be able to do what I love and raise money towards such a worthy cause is a blessing."

Your Local Guardian:

Arina in her diving kit

And daredevil Arina completed the dive in style.

She said:  “I told my instructor that I’ve done a jump before so he asked if I wanted to do some 'crazy stuff' in the air and I agreed.

"The free fall lasted about 45 seconds and he showed me how to turn in the air. It was a great feeling." 

She added: "I got to manoeuvre in the air whilst falling at 120 to140mph. At around 5000 feet we opened the canopy. It was very still and quiet and we could actually talk.

 "It was an exhilarating feeling to be able to spin in the air. I felt excited and calm at the same time."

She now plans to raise more money for the charity.

 

 


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