Hamilton Court resident to take leap of faith for Hospice charity

Turning gratitude into action: Hamilton Court resident Mark Bannister’s bold skydive for hospice charity

Mark Bannister, a resident at Hamilton Court, South Woodham Ferrers, is preparing to take an extraordinary leap of faith, both literally and personally, in support of a cause close to his heart.

Mark Bannister, 66, who lives in the Masonic sheltered housing scheme at Hamilton Court, run by the Masonic Housing Association, has announced he will undertake a tandem skydive on 6 June 2026 to raise funds for Farleigh Hospice.

Described by those who know him as a ‘quiet and unassuming man’, Mark’s decision to take to the skies marks a significant and deeply personal challenge. For many years, he has lived with low self-esteem and a lack of confidence, making this bold step all the more remarkable.

Mark’s motivation is rooted in personal experience. Over the past 35 years, both close friends and family members have battled cancer, with hospice services providing vital care and support during those difficult times. Now, with a member of his immediate family currently living with the illness, the cause has taken on renewed urgency. On each occasion, Farleigh Hospice teams have been there to provide comfort and support, Mark explained, “Now, once again, they are helping my family, and I wanted to do something meaningful in return."

Setting himself the challenge of a tandem freefall parachute jump, Mark hopes not only to raise funds but also to inspire others who may be struggling with similar feelings of self-doubt. “I want to use this event to raise as much money as possible,” he said. “But also, maybe to encourage others like me to take on a challenge, however small, and feel better about their lives."

Residents and staff at Hamilton Court have rallied behind Mark’s efforts and in addition to Marks ‘Just Giving’ page, are helping to share his fundraising campaign more widely across the community. Supporters are hopeful his story will reach an even broader audience in the coming months.

As June approaches, Mark’s leap from the skies stands as a powerful symbol, not just of fundraising, but of personal courage, resilience, and the determination to overcome inner barriers while helping others in need.

To read more about Farleigh Hospice click link to their website: https://www.farleighhospice.org/

Photos of Mark and the skydiving has been AI generated by Ken Turner, Secretary and Communications Officer at Hamilton Court for publicity purposes – Let’s hope Mark is smiling on the day!