Sudbury veterans set for daring skydive in aid of armed forces charity
Two former veterans from Sudbury are taking the plunge in a daring skydive this weekend to raise funds for a charity close to their hearts.
Howard Hughes, founder of the Sudbury Veterans Breakfast Club, and group member Len Gooby, 51, have dedicated the challenge to SSAFA – the Armed Forces Charity.
The organisation provides lifelong support to members of the Armed Forces, veterans and their families.
Mr Hughes, of York Road, praised the support of the charity.
“All veterans have had help from the charity, so we would like to give something back,” said the 34-year-old.
“I have had help from them in the past when I left the Army in 2009,”
Mr Hughes, who is originally from Cumbria and was based at Merville Barracks in Colchester, where he served in the Army for nine years, receives regular support from the charity.
“I still see my councillor once a month,” he said.
The daring pair will take the plunge at Beccles Airfield, near Norwich, on Sunday, with members from the breakfast club offering support.
Mr Hughes’ partner, Pip, and step-children will be cheering him on during the challenge.
“It will be a nice day out for everyone,” he said.
In 2007, Mr Hughes took part in a skydive, which he found nerve-racking, but still thoroughly enjoyed.
“I loved it, but I was very nervous,” he said. “I was a lot fitter back then.”
A £2,000 fundraising target has been set up online, with half the amount already reached.
Mr Hughes set up the veterans breakfast club in Sudbury earlier this year, which is a nationwide initiative designed to bring former service men and women together.
He said the club, which meets on the first Saturday of every month, has proven popular.
The membership has risen to 55 members, with male and female veterans ranging from 30 to 97 years old.
“It’s been really positive,” said Mr Hughes. “A lot of banter goes on; it’s like being back in the forces.
“It’s good for older people who live by themselves as it helps to get them out of the house,” he added.
To make a donation, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sudbury-vets-club.