Jump directly to the content

A DAREDEVIL is hoping to be the oldest person to do a skydive on her 102nd birthday — after a morale-boosting message from Prince William.

Manette Baillee is leaping out of a plane at 13,000ft on Sunday to raise funds for the royal’s ex-colleagues at the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

Manette Baillee is hoping to be the oldest person to do a skydive on her 102nd birthday
3
Manette Baillee is hoping to be the oldest person to do a skydive on her 102nd birthday
The daredevil celebrated her 100th birthday by racing a Ferrari around Silverstone
3
The daredevil celebrated her 100th birthday by racing a Ferrari around Silverstone
Manette insists people 'must always look for something new'
3
Manette insists people 'must always look for something new'

William last week wrote to Manette saying her “generosity” will save lives.

He wrote: “Catherine and I hear you will be marking your 102nd birthday next week with a parachute jump!

“Knowing you celebrated your 100th birthday by racing a Ferrari around Silverstone, we are not surprised.

“I understand both the Motor Neurone Disease Association and East Anglian Air Ambulance will benefit from your jump.

READ MORE ON SKYDIVING

“They are tremendous organisations who help so many people.

“From my time with East Anglian Air Ambulance I know how many lives are saved due to the generosity of people like you.

“We will be thinking of you on the 25 August, and hope you have a great time. I cannot wait to hear what you will do for your 103rd birthday!

“Have a very happy birthday.”

Manette insisted: “You must always look for something new. Community, friends and being among people is my secret to life.

“Keep busy, be interested in everything, be kind to those around you and let them be kind to you — and don’t forget to party.”

Prince William reveals heartache at seeing kids suffer in air ambulance job saying: 'It really affected me'

The current oldest skydiver is Verdun Hayes, who was 101 years and 38 days on his leap in 2017.

Topics