A THRILL seeking bank Westhoughton manager has hurtled into the record books.

Andrew Jolley was one of 124 people who took part in a World record breaking tandem free-fall parachute jump at a small airfield in Oxford.

And at the same time he raised more than £1,400 for MENCAP, the UK's leading charity for people with learning disabilities.

Andrew described hurtling 20,000 feet towards earth as "brilliant"

He went on: "It was very scary but at the same time exhilarating. It is frightening stepping out of the plane, but once the chute opens you can enjoy the experience. It's incredible hurtling towards earth at that speed, it's like going through a wind tunnel."

Andrew, who was strapped to a trained instructor during the fall, said: "It was a perfect day - the sun was shining and the skies were clear. There's no doubt about it - I'd do it again."

And Andrew - who runs the Barclays bank branch in Patricroft, Eccles is well-pleased with the fact that his landing was perfect. "I didn't fall over," he declared proudly.

Half of the amount he's raised for charity has come from his generous employers Barclays, who agreed to match pound for pound any sponsorship Andrew raised up to a total of £750.

"The money's still coming in, in dribs and drabs," he added.

If you would like to know more about parachute jumps for MENCAP ring 0845 9777779 or write to Parachute Jumps, MENCAP, Freepost, London EC1B JAA.