The manager of a local hospice is set to do a skydive in a bid to raise money for charity.

Paula Smith, 31, manager of St Clare’s hospice in Debden, is skydiving with boyfriend Guy Hildreth, in Peterborough, in hope of raising £700 for the hospice, which cares for people with life threatening or terminal illnesses.

Although not being in a relationship for long, the couple decided to do the jump together after the death of close family members.

Ms Smith said: “For me, I decided to do the skydive after my Nan and dad’s best friend died in the hospice and of course I work for the charity."

So far the couple have raised £400 for the charity but are hopeful they will get to the target of £700 before the event next month.

Having done a skydive a few years prior, Paula said she is excited to do another and her family are all behind her.

“All my family are supportive as it is a very personal charity.

“I done a skydive a few years ago so I’m excited to do it again.”

Paula has worked for St Claire’s Hospice for nearly six years and was recently promoted as manager of the Debden branch.

St Claire’s Hospice was established in 1990 and has been caring for patient and their families ever since.

Paula and Guy will skydive in Sibson, Peterborough on March 14.