90 year old paraglides for animal charity

A Lincolnshire OAP has marked her milestone 90th birthday by paragliding for charity.

Thrill-seeking Connie Smith ticked the paraglide off her bucket-list all in aid of her favourite pet charity, PDSA, who celebrate their 100th birthday on Friday 17 November.

Connie took to the skies in southern Spain, where her son lives, enjoying the breath-taking coastline.

Connie said: “Everyone thought I was completely mad, but it was an absolutely fantastic experience, I enjoyed every second. I didn’t feel scared at all, I just took in the beautiful scenery around me. My son, Pete, and my daughter-in-law, Jane, came along with me and they said I was smiling like a Cheshire cat on my way down. I know they were proud of my big achievement and they want to have a go themselves now!

“I actually wanted to go wing walking but the age restriction was 75 so I wasn’t allowed!”

“I’m a big animal lover and have always supported PDSA”, says Connie. “I’ve been fundraising for the charity since I was seven years old. I grew up in Nottingham and I remember dressing up as little red riding hood and going around with a collection box. My auntie always had a close affinity with PDSA so it’s been close to my heart for a very long time. I have a cat and know how important pets are, particularly as you get older. I’m pleased that I’m still able to raise money for such an amazing charity.”

Connie comes from a line of long-living families, whose mother and aunts lived well into their hundreds. She’s hoping to make it to a ripe old age too, and so far, she’s showing no signs of slowing down.

Rosie Gibbons, fundraiser at PDSA said: “Connie is a true inspiration – her bravery is truly remarkable. We’ll be marking our 100th year anniversary with a year of celebrations and fundraising, so we are incredibly grateful to Connie for going above and beyond to raise money for sick and injured pets.”

Connie is hoping to smash her £250 fundraising target for PDSA. You can help her do this by donating to her fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/connie-smith1.