Daredevil Fundraiser takes on charity wing walk for Claire House Children’s Hospice

A daredevil Southport fundraiser is all set to take on a charity wing walk for Claire House Children’s Hospice this weekend – and he’s hoping it will be third time lucky! 

Jonny Johnstone, 54, will take on his challenge this Sunday (21st July 2024) at Leeds East Airport to give as much money as he can to support youngsters at the hospice. 

He has already raised over £2,400 for the charity. 

He said:

“I’m trying for the third time to complete my wing walk this Sunday! 

“Unfortunately, high winds have postponed it previously. 

“I would like to thank everyone who has donated to my fundraiser already.

“Hopefully once it’s done, others will donate to this worthy cause. 

“I’ve been so disappointed that it’s been cancelled twice, but I appreciate that safety is first and foremost. 

“My appeal is nearing £3,000 so fingers crossed I can take it over that mark.” 

The aircraft will fly between 200 ft and 700 ft high at speeds of up to 110 mph, with Jonny attached to the top of the plane in a special harness.

In 2021 Jonny, along with close friend Colin Reilly, raised over £10,000 for the charity by spending an exhausting nine hours running up and down sand dunes 500 times in Birkdale in Southport as they completed the Sandhill 500. 

“It’s three years ago that me and my good friend Colin Reilly last took on a challenge to raise Funds for Claire House Children’s Hospice, a mammoth 500 times up a sandhill in Birkdale. 

“Well I’m flying solo so to speak on this one, doing a wing walk! 

“There hasn’t been as much training and effort needed for this latest challenge, however it is stretching my nerves. 

“I don’t particularly like going on the waltzers, never mind strapped to the top of an aircraft, so it’s going to be interesting.” 

Jonny and Colin have completed skydives, Tough Guy challenges, and their famous Sandhill challenge, all to benefit Claire House. 

The wing walk in Yorkshire is set to take Jonny to new heights. 

He said:

“I don’t expect to raise as much as previous efforts, but it would be nice to achieve my target and above. 

“It’s a fantastic cause that means so much to us.

“Having spent many times in Claire House with staff, it really does have an impact on your emotions, and leaves a lasting memory in your mind. 

“The support we have had in the past, we would again like to thank everyone, and we appreciate all the donations and sponsors.”

Claire House Children’s Hospice is based in Bebington in Wirral and supports families across the North West. 

The hospice helps seriously and terminally ill children live life to the full by creating wonderful experiences and bringing back a sense of normality to family life.

By providing specialist nursing and end of life care, as well as emotional support, Claire House helps families through some of the toughest times of their lives.

Claire House has a team of trained professionals who are as passionate about what they do as they are talented at doing it. Its staff includes nurses, physiotherapists, play specialists, and counsellors.

If you would like to support Jonny’s fundraiser you can donate via his JustGiving page here. 

Find all the latest Southport news here.