A born and bred Ottregian will be looking to the skies this weekend as she bravely steps out onto the wings of a bi-plane, all in the name of charity.
Angela Atkins Phillips, 55, from Ottery St Mary, is showing her support for Hospiscare by taking on a sponsored adrenaline-fuelled wing walk this Sunday (May 2) from Dunkeswell airfield with Wingwalk.Buzz.
After climbing on to the top wing of the plane, Angela will then be securely strapped to a frame. The plane will then take off and fly around, performing aerobatic manoeuvres, for around 10-15 minutes.
Angela, who is married to husband Graham and has two adult step children, said: “Doing a wing walk has been on my bucket list for so many years, ever since I saw the Crunchie Team in the early ‘90’s, but I never dreamed it would be possible for an ordinary person to do it.
“When I joined Hospiscare in their abseil down Canonteign Falls event in 2019, I mentioned that if they ever organised a wing walk I would sign up, and I did so last year.”
The walk has been postponed several times due to mechanical problems and the lockdowns but Angela has her fingers crossed that it’s chocks away on Sunday.
“I enjoy take off when on holiday flights and I love the acceleration,” Angela added.
“I’m getting nervous as Sunday approaches because I have no real idea what to expect.
“I imagine it will be something like the two tandem parachute jumps I’ve completed in the past but a lot faster and more fun.”
“I’m praying for good weather and strong safety straps to hold me onto the bi-plane.”
Angela has beaten her £650 fundraising target and donations currently stand at £615 from her JustGiving page and £165 donated at her father’s funeral in August last year.
Toni Hiscocks, Hospiscare local fundraiser for East Devon, said: “Angela is a phenomenal supporter. She took part in an abseil at Canonteign Falls in 2019, which is England’s highest waterfall - more than 220ft high - such a terrifying challenge, she is a real thrill seeker and happy to challenge herself.
“After a difficult year we’re all absolutely thrilled with what Angela has achieved so far, this is not easily done, especially during a pandemic.
“She is so positive with her fundraising approach, well done Angela and good luck.”.
To support Angela's wing walk for Hospiscare, go to: https://justgiving.com/fundraising/angela-atkins-phillips1
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