A 77-year-old Islander has jumped out of a plane to raise money for men experiencing homelessness.

Eddie Culkin completed a charity skydive on Friday 21 August in aid of Sanctuary Trust, landing outside the Gunsite Café at around 5pm.

The dedicated volunteer has already raised £1,200 through his JerseyGiving page – but insisted ahead of the challenge that the attention should remain firmly on the charity.

“It’s not about me; it’s all just about the charity,” he told Express.

“I am doing it for the people that Sanctuary Trust supports – a lot needs to be done for the people who are less fortunate than myself.”

Despite preparing to jump from a plane at the age of 77, Mr Culkin said beforehand that he was not nervous because he “will fly with God”.

“A skydive has been something I have thought about for a little while,” he said.

“I have been supporting the charity for roughly three years, through charity sleepovers, volunteer work, cleaning litter.

“I give a couple of hours a week to them, but my volunteer work also helps me focus my own time and do some good.”

Sanctuary Trust provides accommodation and tailored support for men in Jersey who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

It can accommodate up to 30 residents across three houses, as well as providing outreach and counselling services.

Since opening in 2011, the charity has supported more than 400 men to move into more stable housing, employment and independence.

Sanctuary Trust chief executive Sarah Tumelty described Mr Culkin as a “loyal supporter” of the charity.

“Eddie has been a loyal supporter of Sanctuary Trust for many years, and we’re incredibly touched that he has chosen to take on this challenge in support of the charity,” she said.

“We’re enormously proud of him and grateful for everything he does for Sanctuary Trust. Every pound raised will help provide support, opportunities, and hope for men experiencing or at risk of homelessness.”

The charity’s annual Sleep Out, which aims to raise awareness of homelessness in Jersey as well as funds for its work, is due to take place on 13 November.

DONATE…

Islanders can sponsor Eddie via his JerseyGiving page.