Worthing Birdman - Yes the rumours are true - I jumped off Worthing Pier as part of Worthing Birdman on 15th August 2010. I must need my head testing I hear you say - but, having helped make a costume for one of last years flyers and having spent a glorious day sunning myself on Worthing Pier watching the event, I felt it only right that I step up to the plate and help raise some much needed money for the Love Your Hospital charity.
Speaking from first hand experience - it's not until you need to use the facilities of your local hospital that you appreciate what a big difference the staff make in support of the local community. I saw this as my opportunity to give something back and help raise money for some much needed equipment to benefit an ever growing number of people.
So when the time came to 'fly' I decided to dress as Penelope Pitstop for the day
Pink helmit, blonde wig, pink and white umbrella, pink coat, white plateform boots - These I had great trouble walking in I must say - the only pair I could find had a 4 inch platform heel - throwback from the 70's - I had some funny glances as I walked down the promanade I can tell you!
As you can appreciate I wasn't able to test my 'flight' until the day so I had everything crossed that I didn't just plunge straight down into the chilly waters off Worthing Pier.
I didn't have long to wait to find out that I did in fact just plunge a few feet out from the platform - my umbrella turned inside out, my costume ended up around my waist much to the amusement of my husband and the masses of people lining Worthing Pier and yes I hit the water like a stone. I was left flapping around in the water with my wig asque until a galent young man came to haul me out - not a very lady like haul I must say! It was a great experience but I was pleased when I was deposited on dry land and able to change into something warm.
Thank you to all my family, friends and everyone who supported me and the Love Your Hospital charity.
Sam Hallett
Business Partner
Balloon Wrap & Decoration