TV star Shirley Ballas is to skydive across Peterborough to do more for suicide prevention.

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) ambassador Shirley Ballas is gearing up to take on a trio of challenges.

The Skyathalon, which takes place next week, is aimed at doing more for suicide prevention and helping people who are struggling.

Shirley sadly lost her brother, and more recently, a good friend to suicide.

It’s believed, every day 18 people in the UK tragically take their own lives. CALM’s aim is to change this - by offering life-saving support, creating culture changing campaigns, and bringing people together across the country to reject living miserably.

The charity’s helpline staff receive 25 per cent more calls during the summer months and speak to someone who is struggling every 59 seconds.

The Strictly Come Dancing judge is now calling on people to stand with her and help CALM provide more lifesaving services for people in their darkest moments.

As part of her first challenge for the charity, Shirley will fly through the sky on the world’s fastest zipline across Penrhyn Quarry on August 8.

On Thursday August 10, locals in Kent may see her reach new heights as she takes on a wing walk and puts one foot in front of the other whilst 700ft above the ground.

The Skyathlon finale will end on Saturday, August 12 where she will jump out of a plane 13,000ft above ground in Peterborough.

However, Shirley won’t be skydiving alone as she is inviting two lucky people to join her on this epic challenge.

To join Shirley on her skydive, simply text the word SKYDIVE to 70215 to donate a suggested £5 and be entered into a prize draw to be in with a chance to join the strictly star.

Peterborough Matters:

Commenting on the fundraising challenge, Shirley said: “I am absolutely terrified of heights, but having lost my brother to suicide and a close friend very recently, I want to use my platform for positive change and raise awareness of the live saving services CALM offers to those struggling.

 “I’m not just doing it for me, I’m doing it for everyone who has lost someone to suicide and anyone who is currently suffering that may need support. Please join me on my challenge and donate whatever you can. It all makes a huge difference”. 

So far, her campaing has raised more than £8,000 for the charity that will help offer a helpline service to struggling people as well provide bereavement support to affected families. Find out how you can support CALM here.