A STUDENT is to celebrate a milestone birthday in style with two high-flying challenges for charity.

Claire Merriman, of Malvern, will not only take the plunge with a 10,000ft skydive on August 6 to mark her 30th birthday, but will also abseil down Abberley Hall clock tower the following day.

She will take on both challenges to raise vital funds for St Richard’s Hospice.

The 29-year-old PhD student at Birmingham City University said: “It will be a crazy weekend to celebrate my 30th birthday.

“I have always wanted to do a skydive so when I saw the advert to do one in aid of St Richard’s Hospice I thought what better way to do it, to fulfil a dream and to help others in the process. “I’m extremely excited about the prospect, however I’m sure I will have jitterbugs on the day.

“Having been affected by cancer myself, having a close family member die from it and knowing many friends who have also had family members suffer with the disease, I feel humble in knowing the small amount of money I will raise will help St Richard’s Hospice in the work they do to help local people through such a difficult time.”

To sponsor Claire, visit justgiving.com/Claire-Merriman30.

Anyone interested in taking part in the challenges should call St Richard’s Team on 01905 763963 or email pjones@strichards.org.uk or visit strichards.org.uk