A NEWPORT man is taking on a 15,000 ft skydive to raise money for a charity close to his heart.

Alex Deasington, 35, of Graig Park Hill, will face the challenge next month in aid of OC Support UK a charity which supports families affected by obstetric cholestasis, a liver disorder which occurs during pregnancy.

The disorder has been reported to be associated with an increased risk of spontaneous premature birth, foetal distress and stillbirth and affects around 1 in 200 pregnant women each year in the UK.

Mr Deasington’s wife, Jenn was diagnosed with the condition when she gave birth to the couple’s eldest daughter Isabelle, who is now five.

Mrs Deasington, who now also volunteers as a group support and development manager for OC Support UK, said: "I was really lucky and Isabelle was born two weeks early but healthy."

Despite being warned she could suffer from the disorder if she fell pregnant again, Mrs Deasington also had youngest daughter Molly two years ago with no complications.

The skydive, which is one of many fundraising events taking place to celebrate the charity’s 20th anniversary, will be held on July 16 at Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon.

To sponsor Mr Deasington visit www.justgiving.com/alexdeasingtonjumpsforoc Anyone who is concerned about OC or would like more information on the jump can ring 07939 871929.