Telford MP to take on 10,000ft skydive in support of Lingen Davies

Telford MP, Shaun Davies is set to take to the skies for a 10,000ft charity skydive later this summer in support of the Lingen Davies Sunflower Appeal, helping to raise vital funds for a new cancer centre at Princess Royal Hospital in Telford.

The challenge marks both a personal milestone and a commitment to supporting local cancer services. Shaun who has just turned 40 said the skydive will push him well outside his comfort zone while raising awareness and funds for Telford’s first ever cancer treatment centre.

The Lingen Davies Sunflower Appeal is a £5million campaign to establish the Lingen Davies Cancer Centre at PRH. As Telford’s first dedicated cancer centre it will not only double the capacity to deliver chemotherapy across the region, but also significantly reduce the need for patients to travel to Shrewsbury for essential care.

Shaun said: “I’m taking on this skydive for two reasons. Firstly, to mark turning 40 and challenge myself to do something completely out of my comfort zone. But far more importantly, to support the Lingen Davies Sunflower Appeal and the delivery of Telford’s first cancer centre at Princess Royal Hospital.

“No one in our town should have to endure gruelling treatment and then long journeys just to access the care they need. Telford is my home, it’s where I was born, raised, and where I’m now bringing up my own family and this centre will bring life-changing treatment and dignity closer to home.

“Lingen Davies has supported so many families in Telford, including my own nan, Betty, who I lived with from the age of 11 and who remains my guiding star. I know first-hand how important that support is and why this new centre will make such a difference.”

The 10,000ft skydive will take place later this summer in Shropshire.

Shaun added: “I’ve got a feeling a few people will be more than happy to help me out of the plane, so I might have to start taking bids for the honour! All jokes aside, there are still places available, so why not join me on the day and help raise money for an incredible local cause? Bring it on!”

Claire Purcell, Head of Community Fundraising for the charity, thanked Shaun Davies MP for his commitment to supporting the Sunflower Appeal and said: "We're tremendously grateful to Shaun for raising the profile of our £5million appeal, not just here in Telford but throughout the county, the region, and even on a national scale.

"Not only has he professionally committed to supporting our fundraising but he is now personally showing his drive to help us deliver this Centre by 2029.

"It's a brave soul that takes to the skies for charity and I thank him and those who sponsor him in this birthday endeavour!”

For anyone who would like to support Shaun’s skydive fundraiser and contribute to the Sunflower Appeal, please visit: justgiving.com/page/telfordmpskydive

There are a handful of spaces left of the plane if you are interested in joining Telford’s MP on the day and joining him in the challenge, please get in touch with shaun.davies.mp@parliament.uk and together raise as much money as possible for Lingen Davies Cancer Support.

From 1 April, every pound donated to the Sunflower Appeal will be doubled by Telford & Wrekin Council until the full £250,000 match funding pot is unlocked, meaning supporters can have twice the impact with every donation.