Fundraising for Manorlands has reached new heights.

Two friends are taking part in a sponsored parachute jump to coin-in cash for the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

Rachel Hargreaves and Rebecca Barrett, both 18 and from Sutton, were due to make the leap of faith at the Black Knights Parachute Centre in Lancaster on August 11.

But the jump had to be cancelled at the last moment due to the weather conditions, and it has been rearranged for September 8.

“We’d gone through the training that day in readiness but, unfortunately, it was too windy to go ahead,” said Rachel.

“It was disappointing because we had got prepared in our minds to make the jump, but we are looking forward to the second attempt. Hopefully, we will have better luck with the weather!”

The teenagers – who both recently completed their A-levels at South Craven School in Cross Hills and collected their results last Thursday – have together raised about £1,300 so far through sponsorship for the hospice.

“We wanted to do something for Manorlands because we’ve both had family and friends who have been cared for there,” said Rachel.

“We took part in the Race for Life at Skipton last year but we weren’t around to do it this time, so we decided to have a go at a parachute jump. You jump from a height of at least 11,000 feet and freefall until 5,000 feet. Neither of us have tried it before, so it’s a new challenge!”

The duo has a webpage – virginmoneygiving.com/team/beccaandracheljump – for donations.

Following their studies at South Craven School, Rachel is now going on to do a foundation course in art at Bradford College and Rebecca will study dance at the University of Central Lancashire.

Manorlands, which relies for most of its income on voluntary contributions, needs to find £1 million to maintain its invaluable services.

The Keighley News Million for Manorlands appeal, launched in April with a £1 million target, has already raised more than £300,000.

Call the hospice fundraising team on 01535 640430 for details of how you can get involved.

And don't forget to contact our newsroom – via alistair.shand@-keighleynews.co.uk or on 01535 606611, option three – with details of your fundraising activities so we can publicise them for you.