Saracen’s Head football coach raises £550 for Holbeach good causes with parachute jump

A football coach has fulfilled a lifelong ambition by completely a charity skydive and has so far raised more than £550 for his chosen causes.

Plasterer Cliff Staff, 36, from Saracen’s Head, made the tandem jump at Sibson Airfield, Peterborough, at the weekend and said it was one of the most amazing experiences of his

life.

The money he has raised will be split between his son Jackson’s football team, which he coaches – Holbeach United Under 12 Yellows - and Little Miracles, a charity supporting families that have children with additional needs, disabilities and life-limiting conditions.

“The skydive was amazing, better than I even imagined – it just felt so freeing,” said Cliff, who is married to Danni and dad to Ollie, 14, Jackson, 12, and Penelope seven. “It’s something I’ve wanted to do for so long. I thought I was going to feel more nervous but the team who took me up made me feel so welcome and relaxed. I’d do it again tomorrow if I could!

“We had brilliant weather – perfect blue skies. It was amazing going through the clouds.

Get the latest news straight to your inbox – sign up for The Briefing

“I was on the plane for about ten minutes, free-falling for about 45 seconds and then we spent around eight minutes in the air circling around.

“It was amazing how much I could see - so much of Peterborough, including Peterborough United’s football stadium.”

Cliff only started fundraising for his chosen causes a couple of weeks ago and has already raised more than £550, but he’s keen to keep going until the end of the month.

“I’d just like to say a huge thank you to everyone’s who’s sponsored me so far, and shared my posts on social media, it really means a lot to me,’ he added. “It was an amazing experience to fulfil my dream and prove to myself that I could do it. I’m already starting to think of what I can do next!”

All the money will be split equally between Little Miracles and the football team, which will use its share to buy new equipment.

- To donate to Cliff’s cause, you can make a payment directly into the Holbeach United U12 Yellow’s team account – Holbeach Utd Yellows – Account No 87887762 – Sort Code 30 98 97.

Have you got a story to share? Let us know in the comments below...