Mappleton Bridge Jump 2007

Daredevil fund-raisers will be heading to Ashbourne on News Year's Day to take part in a hair-raising challenge for charity.

The Mappleton New Year's Day Boat Race and Bridge Jump will see about 36 men and 10 women take part in an adrenaline-fuelled test.

In teams of two, contestants start by rowing half a mile along the River Dove in plastic boats.

When they reach Okeover Bridge, they jump off it, 28 feet into the water below, before swimming 30 yards to the bank and running the last 500 yards to the Okeover Arms pub, in Mappleton Road.

For the first time, a women-only race will be held and cousins Hannah and Roxanne Wibberley are two of the 10 women taking part.

"It's a nice way to kick off the New Year," said 21-year-old Hannah, of The Greenacre, Clifton.

"We just thought it's something a bit different and it's for a good cause. I'm a bit apprehensive but looking forward to it."

Last year, the event, organised by Ashbourne Divers, raised more than £1,700 for multiple sclerosis and this year, organisers Pat and Jim Breeze hope to hit the £2,000 mark for Cancer Research.

"It's always a brilliant day, no matter what the weather," said Mrs Breeze.

The women's race is at 11am and the men's at noon. Women should arrive at 10.15am to take part, and men at 11.15am. It costs £10 to participate.

There is no charge to watch but donations to Cancer Research are welcome.

This will be the 24th challenge staged by Mr and Mrs Breeze.

The idea was born from a bet between Mr Breeze and his friends, who said he couldn't jump off Okeover Bridge when he was 41.

To take part, call 01335 344596.

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[wmaclowe]

I've done it on June 9th an I'm 11, I'm will macdonald-Lowe,so ye

[greeenday10]

freezing!