A COUNCILLOR turns daredevil today to raise funds for a charity.

Barbara Harpham will make a leap from an aeroplane at 13,000ft with the world famous Red Devils.

The Redcar and Cleveland Borough councillor signed up to do a tandem parachute jump in aid of Heart Research UK, aiming to raise £1,000.

Coun Harpham was excited but nervous about the jump, adding: "I didn't think twice about taking the challenge and, even now, I don't think I'll realise what I've let myself in for until we get into the plane.

"We're with the world's best, though, so it's just a big thrill.

"On the day, I'll be in tandem, strapped to a Red Devil, before diving from 13,000ft.

"I know from a solo jump on a static line I did from 3,000 ft, the worst part is the land speeding towards you, but it's all in aid of a good cause, especially when you consider how common a heart operation it is today."

If you would like to support Coun Harpham, contact Heart Research UK's fundraising team on (0113) 2347474.

She added: "I've had great support from my council colleagues. I think they feel sorry for the poor Red Devil that has to listen to me all the way down."

All the money raised will be used to help fund research into the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease.