On Saturday over 40 brave folks leapt out of a plane in Beccles, Suffolk in memory of four young men who took their own lives, and to raise money for CALM.  The Nice CALM Ride fundraisers’ ultimate aim is to raise enough money to set up a Norfolk CALMzone, and if the energy and support they displayed at the weekend is anything to go by, this is more than achievable.

Zanny Lain, James North and a huge gang of the family and friends of Jimmy Lain, Nick Thomas, Paul Outlaw and Nick Dobson, zipped themselves into their flight suits, donned their goggles and prepared themselves for what can only be described as a hair raising leap out of a plane.

With bright slue skies overhead, a large crowd of supporters cheered and clapped the parachuters as they soared over head and landed a matter of metres away.  With not one diver changing their minds, it was a hugely inspirational and exhilarating experience as a spectator, particularly given the reason behind the event.  Even a CALM staff skydive was tentatively mentioned following the unanimously positive reactions from the divers once they were back on solid ground, so watch this space!

Between them, they have already managed to raise upwards of £7000 but donations are still coming in.  This money raised will have a hugely positive and direct effect on the service we can offer men in crisis through our helpline and also aid us in our ongoing campaign to prevent male suicide in the UK.  If you would like to donate click HERE.

It is because of events like this that CALM can continue to exist and drives our campaign against living miserably, and for that we are unbelievably grateful.  A remarkable day. YOU ALL ROCK!

The skydive was featured on ITV Anglia and BBC Look East or you can read a report of the event which appeared in Norwich Evening News