A teenager is planning to do a sky dive to raise money for a charity which is close to her heart.

Emily Harrison, of St George’s Avenue, Sheerness, is keen to support Alzheimer’s Research UK as her grandfather suffers with the disease.

The 16-year-old, who is currently sitting her GCSEs at the Westlands School in Sittingbourne, hopes to do the jump at Headcorn by the end of the summer.

She wants to raise at least £400 for the cause, which works to find preventions, treatments and ultimately a cure for dementia.

Her grandad was diagnosed more than two years ago and she says it has been hard for the family to deal with.

“My nan looks after him and he does go to Age UK and has support from Crossroads Care and a nurse is always available, but it is quite hard,” she said.

“It can be quite upsetting for us as a family and we have to remind him of things quite often.

“It’s not really a well supported charity and I feel it doesn’t get as much attention as it should so I wanted to do my bit.

“My grandad is an inspiration to me and my family.”

Emily, who is a member of Sheerness Swimming Club and Lifeguard Corps, is also planning other fundraisers including a sponsored swim.

She added that she is looking forward to the sky dive and is more nervous about raising enough money than the actual jump.

To sponsor Emily, go to www.justgiving.com/emily-harrison121