A BASINGSTOKE borough councillor is planning to undertake a 13,500ft leap of faith in June with a charity tandem skydive.

Cllr Sajish Tom, who represents Popley ward, is gearing up for the event on Saturday, June 3, in which he hopes to raise as much money as possible for the children’s wards of Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The skydiving event, organised by the Salisbury Army Parachute Association, is aiming to raise funds for the Hampshire Hospitals Charity – ‘The Magic Lion Appeal’.

The 55-year-old councillor is one of a 12-strong group taking on the challenge in Salisbury, Wiltshire, to support the initiative to improve services for children and young people seen at Basingstoke, Winchester, Andover and Alton hospitals.

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Cllr Tom said: “This will be a big adventure for me as I’m scared of heights. But I think I will be alright as I’m doing this for a good cause.

“This is definitely exciting. I feel proud to raise money for the hospital services.”

Cllr Tom, who has been working as an admin clerk with Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital for the past nine years, is the first hospital trust staff to become a borough councillor.

His target is to raise £3,000 as part of his fundraiser.

He has already raised more than £1,200, and is hoping he can achieve the target before the big day.

To contribute to Cllr Tom’s fundraiser, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Sajish-Tom