A cancer survivor with a lifelong fear of heights will jump out of a plane at 10,000 feet to raise money for charity.

Jo Xie, of Handley Grove, Cricklewood, will take part in the parachute jump in Maidstone, Kent, on August 11 to raise money for charity Beating Bowel Cancer.

The 52-year-old was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2009. She had complications following an operation to remove the tumour and was in a coma for several weeks.

Since her recovery, she decided to raise money to help others suffering from the disease.

She said: “I’m so excited about the parachute jump, although I am anxious about the height. I’m very keen to promote awareness of bowel cancer and to raise funds for Beating Bowel Cancer.

“I’m also very keen to challenge myself physically as I don’t do as much physical activity as I used to before the cancer. Jumping out of a plane really is the ultimate challenge for me as I’m terrified of heights.

“My friends say I won’t do it, which is a great incentive because once I’ve done it I intend to challenge them by saying if I can do it so can they.”

Graham Kelly, director of fundraising at Beating Bowel Cancer, said: “We’re very grateful for Jo’s support and fundraising efforts, which will help us to help more patients.”

To donate to Ms Xie’s efforts, visit www.doitforcharity.com/JOANNAX