She’s dived in shark-infested waters and hurtled through the clouds on a couple of sky-dives.

Now daredevil Sheffield mum Tara Petch is preparing to take to the skies atop the wings of a vintage bi-plane on August 11 to raise money for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

But Tara knows someone far braver - her three-year-old son Brandon who is her inspiration.

“Brandon has global developmental delay and has had to work so hard for everything he achieves,” said single mum Tara, 36, who works with children in families fleeing domestic violence.

“But he is so determined and hard-working, he never gives up and he never thinks he can’t do something. He amazes me every day. He can’t walk yet but has recently trying to stand unsupported and even took a few steps last week. He has also had health battles including pneumonia, and has been so positive and brave throughout. He is everything to me.”

Watching how her son overcomes every obstacle made her determined to sign up for Bluebell Wood’s fundraising Wing Walk, which will take participants on a thrilling 130mph, head-in-the-clouds flight from Wickenby Airfield in Lincoln, on the wing of a bi-plane. 

She explained: “I want my son to grow up seeing that everyone encounters things that scare them and meet them head on.”

The other reason for her bravery is her determination to help Bluebell Wood.

 “My friends and family think I’m crazy for doing it, but they know I’ve always been adventurous,” she said.

I’ve done a couple of sky-dives in the UK, I’ve para-glided in Australia and went down in a diving cage in shark-infested waters in South Africa.

“A  wing walk was the only thing I didn’t do when I was younger. When I spotted the hospice was calling for people to take the challenge, I decided to go for it while I have a little courage left.

“I love children, so this charity is close to my heart.

“As a parent it is unimaginable how hard it must be for parents of children with life-limiting conditions. Having visited Bluebell Wood I know what amazing work is done there to make the most of their children’s precious time.”

Bluebell Wood Hospice is daring others to join Tara for the Wing Walk Challenge while there are still places available. Go to https://www.bluebellwood.org/Event/wing-walk-2019  

Participants, aged 18-65, can either pay a £100 deposit and raise a minimum of £700 in sponsorship, or pay £400 and raise £400 in sponsorship.