A VETERAN with incurable liver cancer has flown a helicopter at 3,500 feet above St Michael’s in Bartestree to help raise funds for the charity.

Bob Purvis, an 85-year-old veteran of the RAF reserves and the army completed the challenge during a flying lesson with Captain Alan Ramsden of Tiger Helicopters, Shobdon.

Bob said, “Learning to fly a helicopter is probably the greatest challenge that I have ever undertaken. Thanks to Captain Ramsden’s brilliant instruction, it was possible for me to celebrate St Michael’s 35th Anniversary in such an unusual way.”

Bob has to complete another 40 hours under dual instruction, 10 hours solo, plus examinations before he can achieve his helicopter licence.

Bob said, “Children of 14 can learn to fly a helicopter, so being diagnosed with cancer wasn’t going to stop me.

‘Tiger Helicopters offers a free Air Experience Flight and after I first experienced the thrill of taking control of a helicopter, I was hooked.

“Living with incurable cancer makes you appreciate just how crucial hospice care is. I hope taking to the skies will encourage people to dig deep for a worthwhile cause.”

To find out more and to support Bob’s challenge, call 01432 852 631 or visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/bob-purvis3500feet