Derbyshire's High Sheriff skydives in aid of National Memorial Arboretum
15 November 2009
Today, Sunday 15 November, Sir Henry Every Bt, High Sheriff of Derbyshire, jumped from 14,000 feet in aid of the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
Sir Henry (aged 62) undertook the intrepid tandem skydive from the giddying height of 2.5 miles. He spent around twenty-five minutes in an aircraft, as it climbed to the correct height, before free falling at 120 mph for up to 40 seconds. The main chute opened at 5,000 feet, with the descent taking between three and four minutes.
The National Memorial Arboretum is a cause that is very close to Sir Henry's heart. He played a key role in the original team that has seen a former gravel quarry near Alrewas in Staffordshire transformed into a stunning Arboretum, which is rapidly becoming the National Centre for Remembrance. It is now home to the Armed Forces Memorial, the nation's tribute to the 16,000 Service men and women who have died on duty, or as a result of terrorism, since 1 January 1948.
Since Sir Henry was installed as the High Sheriff of Derbyshire in April this year, and despite his fear of heights, he has already completed a daring 212ft abseil down the tower of Derby Cathedral.
Sir Henry, six of whose ancestors have held the title of High Sheriff from 1612, made his jump at the British Parachute School, Langar, South Nottinghamshire.
Those wishing to support Sir Henry and help more visitors, of every age, remember those who've fallen in the Service of their country, can donate online at www.justgiving.com/SirHenry.
Alternatively, donations can be made payable to the 'National Memorial Arboretum' and sent to Sir Henry's Sky Dive, The National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire DE13 7AR.
The National Memorial Arboretum relies on the generous support of individuals and organisations and is grateful for all gifts, large or small, that make it possible to continue its vital work.
