A group of workers at British Gas Business in Cowley are set to take the plunge to raise money for the Helen and Douglas House hospices in East Oxford.

So far 11 members of staff at the firm's office at Oxford Business Park have signed up to do a parachute jump for the charity.

The team have pledged to raise at least £350 each for the charity and are asking for help to raise as much as possible.

Former Slovakian radio journalist Ludka Britanakova, 29, of Risinghurst, was one of the first to sign up.

She said: "I got involved pretty lightheartedly. We support Helen and Douglas House and I was helping people who had a workshop there when it was suggested.

"Obviously it's a good cause and I think seeing those kids who literally need every penny really encouraged me to get involved."

The parachute jump will involve a tandem jump at 10,000ft and about 30 seconds of freefall before the parachute opens at 5,000ft. Miss Britanakova said: "It's going to get really scary and I think the worst part will be just before I jump."

The jump takes place on September 23.

To sponsor her see www.bmycharity.com/ V2/LudkaParachuting07