A remarkable story has captured the world’s attention: a 102-year-old grandmother named Manette Baillie has become the oldest British person to skydive, marking her birthday with this incredible achievement.
Granny Takes the Leap
This weekend, Manette Baillie made the daring jump at the famous Beccles airfield in celebration of her birthday. After her record-breaking feat, she shared her excitement in an interview with the BBC.
“I was out of breath, and yes, it was a bit scary. I have to admit, I closed my eyes for quite a while. But I want people who are close to 80 or 90 not to give up on anything. Just keep going. I’ve been so lucky to stay fit and well, so I felt I had to do something meaningful with that—really, that’s the reason for it all. I couldn’t just let it go to waste.”
A 102-year-old British woman, Manette Baillie,
has become Britain’s oldest skydiver after throwing herself out of a small plane to skydive over Suffolk, England, to celebrate her birthday.WHAT A WOMAN!!! #UK pic.twitter.com/20E85HW6SN
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Manette Baillie’s Extraordinary Life
Manette’s story is truly extraordinary. Once married to a paratrooper, she served in the Royal Women’s Naval Service during World War II but never considered parachuting herself—until now.
“I did this for charity, supporting an old club that was dissolved after World War I for ex-soldiers. I’m also raising funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association because I have a niece who suffers from it and needs support for research.”
A woman called Manette Baillie wanted to celebrate her 100th birthday in style, so she drove a Ferrari around Silverstone at 130mph to raise money for her local village hall.
Proof: don’t let others define your limits! pic.twitter.com/l0PqLwrC61
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Manette mentioned that this might be her final fundraising challenge. The previous record for Britain’s oldest skydiver was held by Verdun Hayes, who made his jump in May 2017 at the age of 101 years and 38 days.
