FORMER X Factor singer Amy Louise Aldred threw caution to the wind as to raise money for the James Bulger Memorial Trust.

The Edgworth singer, known by her stage name Redd, took part in the charity's annual skydive in Cockerham, Lancaster, raising £500 for the cause.

The 24-year-old, who is patron of the charity, jumped 15,000ft from a plane in a tandem skydive which reached speeds of 140mph.

The trust was set up by James' mum and stepdad Denise and Stuart Fergus in memory of the two-year-old who was abducted and murdered by 10-year-old boys Robert Thompson and Jon Venables in 1993.

Miss Aldred, who collaborated with Snoop Dogg and Akon for single I'm Day Dreaming, said: "It was unreal. I genuinely thought at one stage I might pull out of it I was so nervous, but it was the best feeling ever. I would definitely do it again.

"When I went up in the plane I was scared, but all of a sudden I thought, 'hang on, I think I can do this.' Next thing I'm jumping out the plane and free-falling. It was the most amazing experience ever.

"I am so pleased to have done it for the trust. Stuart did it last year so when they asked me I couldn't think of a better reason to do it. "

The trust, called For James, helps give respite young people who deserve a holiday with their family in a special 6-berth caravan in Blackpool.

Mr Fergus said: "I am really grateful to everyone who took part in this year's skydive, which raised more than £2,000 in total.

"This will help us fund holidays in our caravan to families that deserve it most.

"Next year's date is already set for June 28 and if we can get 40 people to take part Denise said she would jump too."

To take part in next year's skydive or for more information about the charity, visit forjames.org.