90 YEAR-OLD THRILL SEEKER

While most of us would be happy to spend our 90th birthday at home with family and friends, nothing could be further from the truth for a Raymond Terrace veteran. Today Jim Elliot celebrated the occasion 10,000 feet in the air.

It’s been 65 years since Jim Elliott last jumped out of an aeroplane. But there was no nervousness for the 90-year-old World War two paratrooper today, as he prepared to once again risk life and limb.

“I’m keen, I’m pumped, I’m ready to go skydiving,” he said moments before the jump.

Mr Elliott spent 20 minutes in the air before it was go time. He endured a nerve wracking exit from the plane, followed by a graceful descent, and a picture perfect landing.

It’s the 17th time Jim’s sky dived, but the first time he’s jumped from 10,000 feet.

“It was absolutely fabulous, I could go up and do it again,” he said upon landing.

It was Jim’s wish for both his 70th and 80th birthdays, but was forbidden from doing so by his wife. He even tried to keep today’s adventure a secret from the family.

“I didn’t want them to know, but they got to know, and I’m glad they did because it’s lovely all of the family around.”