MGM Advantage breaks tandem skydiving record in aid of Alzheimer’s Society

The old world record stood at 130 tandem jumps, while the company managed to tandem jump 160 people on the day. Funds raised so far have exceeded £70,000, with money still coming in.

The world record attempt was held last Thursday (5th July) at Hinton Airfield, near Oxford and was overseen by an official Guinness World Records adjudicator, alongside friends and family of the participants.

The first tandem jumper of the day was Chris Evans, Chief Executive of MGM Advantage, who said:

'I feel immensely proud to have played a part in breaking the world record, but even more pleased to have helped raise a significant amount of money for a very worthwhile charity.  Alzheimer's society supports people with dementia, a condition which many of us have been affected by through relatives or friends.'

The skydivers were waved off by Only Fools and Horses actress and Alzheimer's Society supporter, Sue Holderness.

Sue said:

'What a fantastic day and what a brave bunch of people who were willing to do something quite crazy in order to help people fight dementia and raise vital funds for Alzheimer's Society.'

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of Alzheimer's Society, said:

'Well done MGM Advantage and each of the brave skydivers who took part in the record break. The money you have raised for Alzheimer's Society will make a real difference to the lives of people with dementia and their carers. As a charity, we rely on the generosity of companies and individuals to help us continue to support people living with dementia, and jumping out of a plane is a truly exceptional way to raise money.'

-Ends-

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk