A FEARLESS charity fundraiser will take to the skies strapped to the wing of an aeroplane – at the age of 85.

Joan Dampney will carry out the stunt to raise money for Christchurch-based Autism Wessex, where she has worked for many years.

Joan, who lives on the Parley Court Estate opposite Bournemouth Airport, says she has no fear whatever.

She will be attached to the top of a biplane and will take to the skies from Compton Abbas airfield on July 5, flying at 1,000ft at up to 100mph.

Autism Wessex runs Portfield School, the social care service Community Wessex and a free advocacy and advice service.

Joan said: “I did an abseil last year and wanted to do something else. At first they wouldn’t let me do a wing walk because of my age, but then they changed their minds.

“My late husband Theo was a Para and jumped out of aeroplanes, but I didn’t want to do a parachute jump because of the risk of breaking bones. So a wing walk is the nearest thing.

“My children think I’m dotty but my grandchildren think it’s great.

“I’m not scared at all; either we crash or we land. But I hope to raise as much money as possible for the charity.

“I’ve been involved with Autism Wessex since it began in 1971 and have been a teacher at Portfield School in Parley and a deputy head and I’m still a governor and director.”

Becky Chalk, Community and Events Fundraiser at Autism Wessex, said: “We are so grateful for Joan raising this money in such a spectacular way.

“Autism Wessex provides services to anyone who needs it – people with autism and associated difficulties, families and professionals.

“While there is no cure for autism, with the appropriate education, support or care and by making the world an easier place to understand, the impact of autism can be reduced and people with autism can be active citizens enjoying maximum independence and a good quality of life.”

Supporters can sponsor Joan at justgiving.com/Joan-Dampney