A GRANDMOTHER who last year abseiled down the Tyne Bridge hopes to go one better and do it twice on the same day.

Alma Blanchard, 78, has severe lung disease and relies on 15 hours of oxygen a day.

As a schoolchild, she had to miss out on games, so she was thrilled when last year, doctors told her she could take part in the British Lung Foundation's Tyne Bridge abseil.

Alma, from North Tyneside, enjoyed the challenge so much that she pledged to do it twice this year to double the amount of money she raised.

The British Lung Foundation's Breathe North regional manager, Bev Wears, said: "Alma is just incredible.

"She raised a magnificent £1,300 last year and I know she wants to better that this year. She is an example to us all and a wonderful lady."

Anyone wanting to take part in the abseil, on Sunday, July 21, is asked to contact the British Lung Foundation on 0191-263 0276 for an entry form.