In my role as High Sheriff for Gloucestershire I have been lucky to meet lots of charities doing wonderful things. The work of Young Gloucestershire in particular is something I am keen to support. 

My son Carlie shot himself on March 9th 2021 aged 22. The work the charity does to help young people who have lost their way is vital. Young Gloucestershire's focus on mental health and wellbeing is much needed in order to give young people the right support, when they need it most.

But how on earth has this led to me being strapped to the wings of a plane, flown 400ft above the ground swooping and diving at up to 300mph? 

Well despite my fear of heights and strong dislike of the noise these planes make I have been roped into completing a formation wingwalk with my colleague and friend Jo Hilditch, the High Sheriff of Herefordshire.

The wonderful Vic and Anne Norman from Go Wingwalking, based at Rendcomb Airfield, have donated this outrageous experience for myself and Jo to fly in formation on top of two of their 1940’s Boeing Stearman Biplanes.

I can honestly say I'm not sure if I'm terrified or exhilarated but I am driven on by the thought that Carlie will be up their flying with me, thinking what a wonderfully crazy thing this is to do to help other young people who are struggling in life.

Young Gloucestershire will be sharing the event on their social media channels so do tune in to hear how we get on.