A BELOVED Brightlingsea resident raised thousands of pounds for charity – thanks to a surprise birthday gift.
Dennis Palfrey, 50, is a builder who lives in Brightlingsea with his wife, Mel.
On April 29, Dennis did a 13,000 foot skydive in Beccles to raise money for the Brightlingsea Lido.
In the end, Dennis’ effort raised over £3600 which was handed to Mick Barry, Brightlingsea mayor.
It is a sizeable amount for the charity, which runs on public funds.
Mel said as longtime residents, the cause was very close to both of their hearts.
She said: "We've always used the Lido, our children have always used the Lido."
Dennis’ jump came about after making an off-hand comment about what he wanted for his birthday.
He told Mel that he wanted to do a skydive to mark it off his “bucket list.”
However, Dennis was left surprised and panicked when Mel went ahead with the idea as he had been joking.
Despite the initial fear, Dennis decided to go through with the experience and raise money for charity.
He was joined on the day by experienced skydiver Tim Porter.
Mel said of her husband: “He’s a local person, very well-loved and helps everyone out when he possibly can.”
She added: “This is the first sort of big, major thing he’s ever done.
“Never to be repeated.
“He was shaking from head to toe when he came down.”
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