Derbyshire colleagues take on daredevil skydive for children’s hospice

Colleagues from a Derbyshire company are taking to the skies in a daredevil challenge to raise funds for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.

The team of 11 from Liniar Ltd, take on the challenge on Saturday 4 May at Langar Airfield. They will be tandem freefalling from 10,000 feet high, while reaching speeds of up to 120mph.

Liniar, which is a UK wide UPVC extruder based in Denby, is a long-term supporter of Rainbows. The charity cares for babies, children, and young people with serious and terminal illnesses from Derbyshire and across the East Midlands.

Since 2020, staff have raised £26,072 for the charity by taking part in events including the Derby Santa Run and a Christmas Jumper Day. The company has also supplied materials for, and built, a tranquil decking area which is used by Rainbows families at the hospice in Loughborough.

Kerry Sweet, Purchasing Assistant at Liniar, said the team – who are aged between 29 and 57, have mixed emotions about the event. “Between us we are nervous, excited and scared,” she said. “For some of us, a skydive is on our bucket list, while others may have been persuaded to sign up!

“Whatever our reasons, we all really want to do this to support Rainbows. Although Liniar helps in fundraising for several local charities, Rainbows is just that little bit more unique in respect that the funds raised helps families make memories forever.”

Kirsty Coxon, Rainbows Corporate Fundraiser, added: “The support we have had from everyone at Liniar over the last few years has been priceless. Not only have they raised so much money to help towards our care of 750 babies, children, and young people, they have also helped us to create a wonderful, relaxing area in our beautiful hospice gardens, which is so popular with families.

“Jumping from a plane is no mean feat and we hope everyone taking part has a great time. Without support of companies such as Liniar, we wouldn’t be able to provide the service we do to the families who need us the most.”