NOT many would celebrate their 65th birthday with a skydive but on Saturday Trowbridge resident Les Barnes is doing just that.

Mr Barnes, of Amouracre, did not know much about it, but when his son Darren was asking what he wanted for his birthday, he decided to sign his dad up for GoSkydive in Salisbury.

Now the postman will hurl himself out of a plane from 15,000 feet to raise funds for a sensory garden at residential care home Primrose Lodge and Lavender House, where his 22-year-old daughter Leanne, who has a rare genetic disorder called Rett syndrome that affects brain development and results in severe learning difficulties and physical disability, lives.

"I am excited and nervous at the same time. I have never done anything like this before but I am sure it will be an unforgettable event," he said.

"The care home provides excellent care for my daughter. So far I have raised more than £1,000 for the home so that they can create a sensory garden for all the residents to enjoy and explore together."

His wife Elaine and older daughter Claire are also supporting his efforts, as they all want to give something back to Primrose Lodge in appreciation of their care for Leanne.

"This is my way of saying thank you to them and doing something a bit barmy. My son signed me up for it a while back and I just went along with it and now I am just a few days away," Mr Barnes said.

"If anyone would like to help with contributions in the way of plants and sensory equipment, or donations to help us to get the total up to £1,500 that would be greatly appreciated."

To donate call Les on 07904 327982.