STAFF from a Dorchester jewellers joined colleagues from other branches as they took to the skies in the name of charity.

A team of eleven staff from family jewellery firm Allum & Sidaway embarked on a charity skydive at Old Sarum Airfield near Salisbury to raise money for four worthy causes.

Representatives of its five offices in Dorchester, Shaft-esbury, Gillingham, Ringwood and Salisbury made up the team that raised funds for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Guide Dogs for the Blind.

They were watched by friends, family and colleagues as they leapt from 10,000 feet above the ground, falling at more than 120 miles per hour.

A number of those taking part admitted to feeling terrified beforehand while others said they were just really excited but all of them were determined to raise as much as possible for their chosen charities.

Even those feeling the nerves before the jump said afterwards that they would do it again.

Allum & Sidaway raises funds for charity every year but this year wanted to reach new heights in more ways than one.

Their efforts were boosted by all five stores donating money from batteries towards the fundraising total and so far more than £11,000 has been raised with more money still to come in.

Managing director Jason Allum, who was among those taking part in the skydive, said he was thrilled with how much had been collected.

He said: “It was a great experience for us all but the money we have raised is truly fantastic.

“I thank the employees who jumped at the chance to skydive and raised lots of money through friends and relatives and of course our stores and customers who have been so generous in their support. This has proved our most successful fundraising year so far.”