Grandad and granddaughter to skydive for Children's Hospice South West

Freya Capsey, 16, and Graham Smith, 77, will parachute at Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

The pair decided on the joint challenge after Freya, whose nickname for her grandad is Gadge, joined CHSW’s Young Ambassador Scheme at Haysfield School in Bath. 

The pair have already raised £1,355 - smashing their original target of £800.

Freya said: “A skydive is something that Gadge and I have always wanted to do.

“When I joined as a CHSW Young Ambassador and saw we could do one and raise money for the charity it just seemed like the perfect opportunity.” 

While Freya, from Bathford, is studying for her A levels, Graham spends his spare time doing puzzles and crosswords and walking his pet dog. 

The pair have always been close - with Freya spending lots of time with Gadge and nanny Linda who live in Devizes. 

Freya, who also loves crafting and is a keen swimmer, said: “I have always been close to my grandparents.

“When I was little we used to go out to play parks and had lots of fun days out. 

“I used to play the piano and Gadge has always had a real love of music, so we share a bond over that too. 

“A skydive is something a bit different for us to do together,” said Freya. 

“I don’t think either of us are nervous, but we are both really excited about the challenge. 

“And luckily neither of us are scared of heights.” 

She is also busy with her Young Ambassador work and is currently organising a Barbie themed movie night at school which will raise money for Children’s Hospice South West. 

Freya admits her friends were "quite shocked" when she told them she was going to do a skydive with her Grandad.

Though she remains confident and knows it will be an incredible adventure.

Freya added: "It will be a thrilling experience for us both and create some amazing memories.” 

CHSW Fundraiser for B&NES and West Wiltshire Heidi Roberts said: “Freya is a very proactive and passionate CHSW Young Ambassador and it is wonderful that she has decided to do this skydive in aid of CHSW with her grandad. 

“I am sure they are going to create precious memories doing this challenge and the amazing funds they have raised will continue to help CHSW create precious memories for families of children and young people with life limiting or life threatening conditions cared for by CHSW. 

“We wish Freya and Gadge the best of luck.” 

Children’s Hospice South West has been providing care and support to children with life limiting illnesses and their families in the South West for over 30 years. 

The charity offers specialist palliative and hospice care for the whole family, a sibling support for brothers and sisters, emergency support, end of life care and a bereavement service. 

To find out more about fundraising for CHSW visit: www.chsw.org.uk/getinvolved. 

Anyone who wishes to make a donation to Freya’s skydive challenge can do so here: https://gofund.me/095253c4