While many people take part in sponsored walks and bike rides, a great-grandmother from a south Norfolk village has thrown herself out of a plane to raise money for a worthy cause.

Margaret Steward from East Carleton has taken to the skies to raise money for The Compassionate Friends, a charity which supports bereaved parents.

The great-grandmother said: 'I did the skydive at Beccles airfield. When you first go up in the plane it looks a long way down but I wasn't scared.

'I really want to do something to raise money and awareness of The Compassionate Friends. The charity has been a great help to me over the years.'

Mrs Steward lost her son and his girlfriend in a road accident when he was 32-years-old.

'I have made some lovely friends through the charity,' she added. 'My grandchildren loved it, they thought it was brilliant.

'Lots of my family were there to support me on the day. I am pleased I did it.'

She has raised a total of �1,150.

The skydive coincided with her 74th birthday on Friday, August 17.

Sue Wellings, who runs the Norwich branch of the charity said: 'The charity is for people who have lost children and we all help to support each other. The group provides a real lifeline and Margaret's skydive means a lot to the charity.'

For more information about The Compassionate Friends, visit www.tcf.org.uk

Are you doing something unique to raise money for charity? Contact reporter Lucy Wright on 01603 772439 or email lucy.wright@archant.co.uk