A TEACHER is preparing to fling himself out of a plane from 10,000ft in a charity challenge after the loss of a close friend.

Hadleigh Junior School’s Jon Brierley, 39, is taking part in Brain Tumour Research’s Maidstone Jump for Hope, which will see him complete a tandem skydive on Saturday.

The charity funds sustainable research at dedicated centres in the UK and campaigns for the Government and larger cancer charities to invest more in research to speed up new treatments and to find a cure.

Mr Brierley’s inspiration for the challenge cane after the death of his wife’s friend last year, just 18 months after being diagnosed with a highly aggressive brain cancer which is generally considered incurable.

The father-of-three said: “She was an amazing woman, and has been an inspiration to me and my wife many times over the years.

“She was one of those people you couldn’t help but fall in love with.”

Looking ahead to the challenge, Mr Brierley said: “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous but I’m buzzing too. It’s going to be a great day and I’m really excited to do it.

“I like jumping off stuff, usually with a rope, but I don’t really like heights or flying.

“It’s mostly the take-off and landing I’m not keen on, but my colleagues have reminded me I only have to worry about 50 per cent of that in this case.”

Thanks to support from pupils and colleagues at school, Mr Brierley has already raised almost £1,000.

He said: “I got near £500 really quickly so I soon started aiming for £1,000.

“I’ve found it staggering how many people have donated incredibly generously because they too have a connection to the disease, which has given me a bigger reason than ever to jump.

“I want to make a mark to help others.”

Charlie Allsebrook, community development manager for Brain Tumour Research, said: “We’re really grateful to Jon for taking on this challenge and wish him the best of luck on the day.”

To support Jon’s fundraising, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jon-Brierley-Skydive