Brave volunteer skydives for QE charity

A brave volunteer from Gateshead took to the sky and jumped out of plane in a charity skydive to raise money for the NHS in Gateshead.

Vicky Watkins before skydive
Vicky Watkins

A brave fundraiser from Gateshead took to the sky and jumped out of plane in a charity skydive to raise money for the NHS in Gateshead.

Vicky Watkins, from Gateshead took part in a charity skydive at the weekend to raise money for QE Charitable Funds, the charity arm of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust. The money will go to the mental health older persons’ fund and Vicky has so far raised £390.

Vicky Watkins said: “I have always wanted to take part in a skydive so to being able to jump and support QE Charitable Funds, older persons’ mental health fund at the same time was truly amazing.

“Mental health illnesses have such a huge impact on people of all ages and cause extreme pressure and worry for their families, so to be able to support the fund and fulfil an ambition of mine at the same time was fantastic. The dive was an amazing experience and would recommend this to anyone thinking about taking the plunge. 

“The QE hospital has looked after so many of my family members including my son and myself and it was an honour to be able to give something back to my local hospital and a place close to my heart.”

Clare King, charitable funds manager said: “Each year we look forward to planning our fundraising events and see so many people get involved and raise money for a range of funds here at Gateshead.

“The skydive is a brave but exhilarating event for fundraisers to take part in but being there while they tick off their bucket list dreams is extremely memorable.

“I would like to say a big thank you to Vicky for taking part in this year’s skydive and her amazing fundraising efforts in support of this fund, this really will make such a difference to our patients here at Gateshead. Well done!”

The event was organised by Sky-High Skydiving in Peterlee, who very kindly offer places to QE Charitable Funds.

You too can show your support for QE Charitable Funds and Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust by participating in any of our 2023 events. Keep checking the events page on our website for future events or visit our fundraising page if you would like to do your own fundraising.

To sign up to any of the 2023 charity events or for any information relating to the charity please email [email protected].