A MAN who is ‘terrified of heights and flying’ is braving a skydive to raise money for Alzheimer’s research in May.

Kevin Bellis, decided to take part in the Alzheimer’s Society One Giant Leap campaign, on behalf of his mother-in-law Gill Dann who suffers from dementia, and is raising money ahead of the 10,000 feet challenge.

The 41-year-old is hoping to reach his £430 target before his 27 May dive, which coincides with Dementia Action Week.

Mr Bellis said: “I have known Gill for nine years, and I have seen the impact vascular dementia has had on her, my wife Sarah-Jane, her sister Charlotte and my father-in-law, Chris.

“I’m terrified of heights, and of flying, so everyone thinks I’m completely mad, but I want to do something to help find a cure for this horrible condition.

“I’ve never done anything like this before, and I have to admit, it’s a bit of a challenge. I’ve been told I have to lose a little bit of weight before May, so I’m on a strict regime of diet and exercise.

“I hope that what I lose in pounds around the waist, I’ll gain in pounds for the charity.”

His mother-in-law’s care home, Mountwood, in Millway Road, is also backing Kevin’s venture by helping him to raise money and promote the event to visitors.

Mountwood’s acting home manager Kerry Edds said: “The residents and staff at Mountwood are delighted to be supporting Kevin on his skydive. Gill has been here for five years and Kevin and his wife visit regularly. We think he’s being incredibly brave and is raising money for a fantastic cause.”

“Alzheimer’s and dementia affect many people in the UK, and it is particularly close to our hearts, as many residents in care homes live with these conditions.

“The work charities like Alzheimer’s Society do is essential to eventually finding a cure to a disease that has such a huge impact on many people and their families.”

To sponsor Kevin, visit http://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/kevin-bellis.