BROTHER and sister Mell Shattock and Matt Rowlinson took a daring leap in their bid to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

The pair, who live in Taunton, did a 15,000 ft skydive at Dunkeswell earlier this month. It was in memory of their dad, Brian Rowlinson, and Simon Eades, a close friend of Matt’s who died suddenly at the age of 38. Simon’s sudden death from heart failure was down to a collapsed artery.

Dad Brian was well known across Somerset, not only as an avid fundraiser himself but he also ran several football clubs including Blackbrook Football Club.

Mell and Matt have so far raised a staggering £2,600.

Mell, who works at Bruford and Vallence, said: “The amount is overwhelming and the skydive was an amazing experience, if a little surreal.

“We would like to thank everyone for their support and sponsorship and for also helping to raise awareness for the British Heart Foundation.

“To be honest, we have been overwhelmed and bowled over by all of the support. It has been amazing.”

You can still sponsor Mell and Matt by visiting their sponsor page justgiving.com/Melanie-Shattock2/