A VOLUNTEER at Mayday Hospital's chapel is taking to the sky in an effort to raise the last bit of money needed for its restoration.

On July 24, Melvin Demmen, 57, will be leaping out of a plane to raise the last £7,000 required to complete the renovation.

St Barnabas' Chapel has been the spiritual heart of the hospital for more than 100 years and, so far, £43,622 has been raised towards its refurbishment.

This has paid for two of the main stained-glass windows to be fully restored, the interior to be completely redecorated and new lighting and heating to be fitted.

But there is still more to do, with the roof to finish, four further windows to restore and a sound system to install.

Melvin, who has been volunteering at the chapel for 10 months, said: "I've taken on this challenge as I know how important the chapel is to patients and their families, as a place of peace and reflection.

"I've also been a patient, so I know first-hand how important it is to have this sanctuary here.

"By doing the parachute jump, I hope to raise money to help get this important project finished and the chapel back to its best."

To sponsor Melvin, visit www.justgiving.com/ Hilary-Fife.