THE sky was the limit for staff at a Bolton taxi firm who deserted their usual mode of transport in a bid to raise money for cancer research and treatment.

Seven drivers swapped their cars for a plane and took part in a parachute jump organised by Breightmet Private Hire.

Over £1,000 was raised and 15-year-old Claire McArdle, daughter of staff member Sharon McArdle, visited Manchester's Christie Hospital yesterday to present a £450 cheque to the children's unit.

Claire had a kidney removed at the hospital around 10 years ago and still returns for an annual check-up.

And a cheque for over £500 has been sent to the Cancer Research Campaign.

Taxi firm owner John Nolan organised the event. Samantha Taylor, Christine Edwards and Clare Gorman, from Little Lever Health Centre in Mytham Road, joined John, his sister Jackie Hampson and professional singer Adrienne Murray.

But the real star of the show was Fred Berry, 70, a part-time driver for the taxi firm, who made a sky dive from 13,000 feet with an instructor.

John said: "Fred has made more than 20 jumps, but the last one was 15 years ago. The rest of us were taking part for the first time.

"We did a static line jump from 3,500 feet. We were frightened to death during the training but on the day everybody was really psyched up.

"Everyone was anxious, hoping the parachutes would open. When they did there was time to enjoy it."

"The money is going to a good cause and two of the girls have already done another jump just for fun because they enjoyed it that much the first time.

"They hope to do another one for charity in the near future."

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