I am Chelsea Pensioner Roy Palmer, aged 84. Myself and fellow Chelsea Pensioner Bill Horsburgh, aged 82, are going skydiving with the famous Army Parachute Team called the Red Devils. This event is taking place at Hibaldstow, Lincolnshire at 0800hrs on 11th May 2023. We are hoping to raise money for the Royal Hospital Chelsea (our home), who are always in need of support.

The skydive is from approx. 15,000ft, 10,000ft freefall (and hopefully) 5,000 underneath a canopy. Needless to say, nerves are playing a big part in the build up to the event.

The actual fall will be in tandem with an instructor, that is because we are old and doddery!

This is another item off my bucket list, but there are many more, including a wing walk later in the year.

We will be jumping in our famous scarlet uniforms so that we can be spotted more easily up there in the blue (we do like to show off!).

We realise times are hard, but if you can see your way clear to sponsor us, we would be most grateful. The way to do this is through this Just Giving page. If you wish to donate cash, we will gladly take it off your hands. Photos are attached so that you will recognise us when we meet. We thank you all in anticipation.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea offers excellent accommodation, comradeship and the highest standards of care to the Chelsea Pensioners in recognition of their loyal service to the nation. Any former soldier of the British Army over the age of 65, who is facing spending their advanced years alone, can apply for residence as an In-Pensioner.

Some 300 army veterans live at the Royal Hospital today, including those who have served in Korea, the Falkland Islands, Cyprus, Northern Ireland and World War II.