Daredevil, 102, hopes to become oldest person to skydive after encouragement from Prince William

A DAREDEVIL is hoping to be the oldest person to do a skydive on her 102nd birthday — after a morale-boosting message from Prince William.

Manette Baillee is leaping out of a plane at 13,000ft on Sunday to raise funds for the royal’s ex-colleagues at the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

William last week wrote to Manette saying her “generosity” will save lives.

He wrote: “Catherine and I hear you will be marking your 102nd birthday next week with a parachute jump!

“Knowing you celebrated your 100th birthday by racing a Ferrari around Silverstone, we are not surprised.

“I understand both the Motor Neurone Disease Association and East Anglian Air Ambulance will benefit from your jump.

“They are tremendous organisations who help so many people.

“From my time with East Anglian Air Ambulance I know how many lives are saved due to the generosity of people like you.

“We will be thinking of you on the 25 August, and hope you have a great time. I cannot wait to hear what you will do for your 103rd birthday!

“Have a very happy birthday.”

Manette insisted: “You must always look for something new. Community, friends and being among people is my secret to life.

“Keep busy, be interested in everything, be kind to those around you and let them be kind to you — and don’t forget to party.”

The current oldest skydiver is Verdun Hayes, who was 101 years and 38 days on his leap in 2017.