A TAUNTON charity worker is terrified of taking part in a challenge she signed up to "in a moment of madness".

Gemma Jackson, who works in the South West offices of Diabetes UK, is undertaking a skydive to raise money for the charity.

She is taking her leap of faith from 10,000 feet at Dunkeswell Airfield on Saturday.

The volunteering and outreach manager has already raised more than £800 through donations, bag-packing and a collection at Tesco.

Gemma said: "I signed up in a moment of madness.

"I’m nervous driving across the Wickes roundabout in Taunton, so you can imagine how petrified I am to be jumping out of a plane at 10,000 feet.

"But it will be worth it. I have family and friends who have diabetes and I've seen the impact it has on them.

"Every day at work I'm surrounded by the most dedicated and inspirational team of staff and volunteers.

"I'd love to help Diabetes UK move towards its goal of a world where diabetes is finally doing no harm, where there are no lost limbs, no night time hypos, no comas, no lives cut short."

Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body cannot use it properly.

If not managed well, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can lead to devastating complications, such as sight loss, amputations and stroke. With the right treatment, knowledge and support people living with diabetes can lead a long, full and healthy life.

Phaedra Perry, Diabetes UK South West regional head, said: "We couldn’t be more admiring of Gemma and her brave decision to do a skydive.

"It is amazing that she is prepared to practise what she preaches.

"I have to admit we will be happy to be cheering her on from the ground, but I’m sure it will be an exhilarating experience, and one that makes an invaluable contribution to our fundraising effort.

"Fundraising is vital to the research and support services we provide for people with diabetes."

To sponsor Gemma Jackson, go to justgiving.com/fundraising/gemma-jackson26