FRIENDS took their fundraising efforts to new heights when they took part in a skydive to raise money for charity.

Leah Goldblatt and Ilana Sherman raised £2,700 for Camp Simcha, in Queens Road, Hendon, which looks after children with serious childhood illnesses.

Ilana, 20, who lives in Hendon and volunteers for the charity, said: “When we talked about doing the skydive we both felt we needed to be motivated by a purpose. Camp Simcha does so much special work and we wanted to raise a substantial amount to help them continue to serve everyone who needs them.

“Just to put a smile on the face of the kids and help them forget everything for even a couple of hours a week is truly incredible.

“Wherever they can, Camp Simcha will always try and help so we wanted to do our bit.”

Leah, 22, from Golders Green, said: “It was unbelievable. For the first 30 seconds we were free-falling at about 120 miles/hour. You can feel the pressure pushing back your arms and your face.

“Then when the shoot opens you fly upwards and there is a moment when you release part of the harness which was a bit scary, but then the five or so minutes just looking at the world beneath me as we floated down was incredible.

“We both loved it.”

Chief executive of Camp Simcha Neville Goldschneider said: “Ilana and Leah certainly took their fundraising to a new level for us and we are very grateful for all their efforts and their daring.

“The money they raised helps Camp Simcha to keep providing vital services giving practical and emotional support to families caring for a sick child.”

To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/Ilanaandleah/