A local firefighter will take to the sky in a 10,000 ft skydive following the death of his dad.

Steve Mosley, who joined the Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue in 2007, has spent his career stationed at the Rickmansworth station.

But after his dad Lt Col Glyn Walker MBE, who spent his life in the military, died from cancer on April 25 this year at another hospice, Mr Mosley wished to help a local hospice in their vital work by fundraising money.

The firefighter hopes that he can raise at least £500 to go towards the Peace Hospice Care in Watford after his skydiving event on July 18.

Mr Mosley and his partner have contributed to various charities over the years, and after his partner was “not brave enough” when notified about a skydiving event, Mr Mosley decided to take on the challenge.

He said: “Every person I’ve spoken to says it’s absolutely amazing and one of the best things I’ll ever do in my life, so while feeling a little apprehensive about jumping out an airplane - with the million things in my head, thinking what if it goes wrong – I’m still excited.

“I’m looking forward to it, but I’d be lying if I said I was completely comfortable it!”

Watford Observer: Steve Mosley will take on a skydiving challenge next month for Peace Hospice CareSteve Mosley will take on a skydiving challenge next month for Peace Hospice Care

The firefighter added that he is the firefighter charity representative for Rickmansworth and has spent much time involved in charity events- but this is going to be “the most challenging thing in terms of courage”.

His dad worked started in the Royal Army Medical Corp at around the age of 16, where he worked his way up to the ranks of a soldier and went on quite a few operational tours.

He came out of the army at the age of 42 and was commissioned as an officer.

Watford Observer: Steve Mosley (left) with his dadSteve Mosley (left) with his dad

Eventually he retired as a lieutenant colonel by the age of 55.

On the JustGiving page, he wrote: “I have recently grown a strong appreciation for care services that come to the aid of those in need during their most vulnerable and needing times.

“I lost my father recently, who was a very respected and well decorated military service man. I have decided to place myself out of my comfort zone and jump from an aeroplane at 10,000 feet to help raise some money for these types of care charities.”

To donate and support Peace Hospice Care, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Steve-Mosley3