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Former Knaresborough mayor skydives for local charity

Monday, 17 August 2026 15:43

Former Knaresborough mayor Helen Westmancoat has completed over 60 skydives for charity.

Former Knaresborough mayor Helen Westmancoat has completed another charity skydive to raise money for a local community hub.

Helen took on the tandem skydive on Thursday (13th August) in aid of Chain Lane Community Hub, with donations being collected through Knaresborough Rotary Club.

The fundraiser has so far raised £295, plus more than £60 in Gift Aid, towards an initial target of £500.

Chain Lane Community Hub provides a range of services for people in Knaresborough, including its Ageing Well project, community transport and digital skills training through its CLICK initiative.

The charity has also supported Ukrainian refugees settling in the local community and needs to secure 60 per cent of its income each year to continue providing its services.

A spokesperson for Chain Lane Community Hub said:

"Helen is a super woman, having done over 60 skydives for charity and we were so lucky she picked to fundraise for us.

"Helen we are incredibly grateful and also in awe of your thrill-seeking bravery."

Helen, who represents Eastfield Ward on Knaresborough Town Council, served as Mayor of Knaresborough during 2025/26 and is a former President of Knaresborough Rotary Club.

She first tried tandem skydiving while working as Deputy University Librarian at York St John University, initially taking on a jump for a student support charity.

Helen's fundraising page remains open for anyone wishing to support Chain Lane Community Hub and Rotary charities.

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