Charitable pair take on skydive for Autism

Sarah Ellis, of Chapeltown, and Amelia Beatty, of Stannington, threw themselves out of an aeroplane at 10,000 ft in the skies over Bridlington last week, in a skydive to mark World Autism Awareness Week.

The daredevil duo took the opportunity to raise money for North Yorkshire charity Autism Angels, which uses communication with horses to help children and families living with Autism.

Using Equine Facilitated Learning, the charity gives families new insights into how to communicate, empower and connect with those on the Autism spectrum.

Sarah, a horse behaviour expert who works with Autism Angels, and friend Amelia, have so far raised over £2,000 for the cause.

Sarah, aged 48, admitted prior to the jump that skydiving was her ‘worst fear in the world.’

“I’ve been terrified of heights for as long as I can remember,” she said.

“I even have problems going up a ladder! But that’s what made it a challenge.

“I was petrified going up but once we were out of the plane I was better,” she said.

“I’m really glad I did it. And I have to admit, the view from up there were absolutely stunning!

“The work that Autism Angels does is truly life-changing for the kids and families that we work with.

“Around 3 million people in the UK alone are touched in some way by Autism. Every single penny we raise is vital to helping us keep on bringing about improvements in countless lives.

Visit www.localgiving.org/fundraising/sarahisdoingaskydive to support Sarah and Amelia’s cause.