102-Year-Old WWII Veteran Sets Record as Britain’s Oldest Parachutist

Manette Baillie, a remarkable 102-year-old World War II veteran, has made history as Britain’s oldest parachutist. In celebration of her 102nd birthday, Baillie took a leap from a plane over East Anglia, marking her first parachute jump. The daring jump was part of her ongoing efforts to raise funds for charity, including Benhall’s village hall, the Motor Neurone Disease Association, and the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

Before the jump, Baillie, who has previously celebrated her milestone birthdays with high-adrenaline activities such as driving a Ferrari at Silverstone, expressed her enthusiasm for new experiences. Despite finding the jump “a bit scary” and admitting to closing her eyes during the descent, she remained committed to encouraging others, especially those approaching their 80s and 90s, to continue pursuing new challenges.

So far, Baillie has raised more than £10,000 of her £30,000 target. Her inspiring action serves as a testament to her adventurous spirit and dedication to supporting charitable causes.