The Deluxe daredevil's giant leap for charity
A businessman came over all James Bond in a bid to raise money to buy a charity a new mini bus.
Mark Simmonds, who works at The Deluxe on Hastings' seafront, took on the world's second highest bungee jump in aid of the Parchment Trust.
And in doing so he followed in the footsteps of Piers Brosnan – or rather his stuntman.
The 220 metre high jump at the Verzasca dam in Switzerland was made famous after appearing in the opening scene of the Bond classic Golden Eye.
In the 1995 film 007 is seen hurtling head first down the terrifying sheer wall of the dam into the ravine.
And, 15 years on, daredevil Deluxe worker Mark Simmonds did exactly the same – not once but twice.
"It was amazing, absolutely fantastic," said a relieved-to-be-on-firm-land Mr Simmonds.
"There was a moment, just before I jumped, when I was a bit nervous but it was – well, amazing."
Mr Simmonds did the first jump forwards and the second backwards and video footage of the leap – which has been enjoyed by colleagues back in 1066 Country – shows him arching through the air before plunging down the dam.
Mr Simmonds, of Pelham Place, has yet to do a final count up of his sponsorship, but will be at The Deluxe on Wednesday, September 15, to hand a cheque over to the Parchment Trust.
His two jumps will also be shown live on a big screen – just in case any sponsors need proof he went through with it.
The Parchment Trust works with adults suffering from profound disabilities and is trying to raise cash to buy a new mini-bus.
It needs 22,000 and anyone who wants to donate some cash – or sponsor Mr Simmonds for his jump – should call John Shive at The Deluxe on 01424 426109.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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