FIVE fearless friends are ready to plunge from a plane to raise money for one of Inverclyde's favourite charities.

Ross Callaghan and pals Ian Hendry, James Hamilton, Donald Morgan and Sandra Brady will jump out of a plane at 10,000 ft together.

They are on a high flying mission to raise as much for as they can for Ardgowan Hospice - a cause close to all of their hearts.

Ross, 38, from Craigmuschat Road in Gourock, said: "I'm nervous as I'm not good with heights but we wanted to do something that is not going to be enjoyable and put ourselves through the fear factor."

Ross says the group, pals through the Victoria Bar in Gourock, want to raise money for Ardgowan as they all know someone who has been supported there.

Ian, from Cardwell Road, lost his wife Anne, 54, to cancer last October and is keen to give something back to the hospice.

Ian said: "My wife Anne passed away last year.

"The care the hospice provided was second to none.

"We couldn't ask for anything more - the care they gave was incredible.

"I think everybody has some contact with the hospice at some point in their lives.

"It's good to give something back because I know they don't get a lot of funding."

James is also looking forward to leaping out of the plane.

He said: "Ross came up with the idea to do the skydive.

"We talked to the others and it built up quite a buzz."

Donald added: "I think it's great to support the local hospice, it does so much for the community.

"What is a skydive in comparison to what these people are going through?

"I'm more than happy to help raise money for the local hospice."

Ahead of the skydive on September 1, the group have organised a few charity nights in aid of Ardgowan.

The first is a 'mini festival' with Inverclyde Acoustic Club at The Vic on Saturday June 15, with Evolver, Durty Mac, Mama Groove and the King St Runners on the bill.

For tickets pop into The Vic or email rscallaghan@hotmail.com

Donations are also being taken online at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ross-callaghan