A skydiving trio from the one family have raised approximately £2,000 for Maggie’s Cotswolds.

Nick Waters, 46, his son Craig, 22, and Nick’s brother in law, Gavin Rowcraft, 36 took part in a skydive on Saturday in aid of Maggie’s Cotwolds – a practical and emotional support Centre for people affected by cancer.

Much fundraising is needed before construction can begin on Maggie’s Cotswolds, which has been granted permission for a site at Cheltenham General Hospital.

The three thrill seeking men from Hucclecote decided to take the plunge after a member of their family was diagnosed with cancer.

Jackie Waters, Nick’s wife and mother to Craig and Jenny, 20, was diagnosed with breast cancer in May and is currently in remission following treatment.

Jackie, said: “When I was diagnosed with cancer there was really nowhere that I could go for emotional support.  The nurses were great but they didn’t have the time, understandably, to spend with patients.  Myself and my family thought it would have been so helpful, during such a difficult time, to have had a Maggie’s Centre to attend where you can talk to people going through the same as you. That is why we started fundraising for Maggie’s Cotswolds and I am really proud of Nick, Craig and Gavin for doing this.  They were all really brave.”

All proceeds raised will go straight to Maggie’s Cotswolds as the cost of the challenge has been met by Gloucester architects, Arctech Associates, who are based in Twigworth.

Maggie’s Community Fundraiser for the area, Sandy Briscoe, said: “Well done to the Waters extended family. I hope more people will follow in their footsteps. A skydive is an unforgettable experience and for those who raise the minimum for Maggie’s, the parachute jump is free.

“Why not jump for Maggie’s as a tribute to someone, a birthday treat or just plain (pun intended) fun.  It really is the experience of a lifetime and you have the added satisfaction of knowing that you are helping bring Maggie’s much-needed cancer information and support services to people right here in the Cotswolds.”

Around 35,000 people are living with cancer in the Cotswolds area and approximately 8,000 people are newly diagnosed each year.

Maggie’s Centres provide emotional and practical support to people diagnosed with cancer and their friends and family, all in a homely and welcoming environment.

A dedicated fundraising team are working towards raising funds for the construction of Maggie’s Cotswolds, which has been designed by one of Britain’s most distinguished architects, Sir Richard MacCormac CBE.

Anyone who wishes to make a donation or discuss fundraising ideas for Maggie’s Cotswolds should contact Sandy Briscoe on 07920 583798 or email sandy@maggiescentres.org.