A WOMAN is doing a skydive next week in memory of a friend who died following a 'long and courageous' fight with cancer.
Janella Calvert, from Norton, has been inspired to take part in the fundraising by her decades-long friendship with Victoria-Smith Collins, who passed away in February.
Janella said it was in Swinton Band, of which she is also a member, that Victoria discovered her lifelong love of brass music.
"I met Vicki in 1985 and we forged a friendship which lasted decades.
"Vicki was also a very talented musician. Taught by my dad, John, Vicki performed at the highest level in brass bands. Rising to the solo horn seat, she went on to earn a coveted place in the National Youth Band of Great Britain, performing at the highest level — including the Royal Albert Hall."
She said: "Vicki was a positive role model to others during her battle and ambassador for the Against Breast Cancer charity, fundraising approx. £60,000.
"She was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 and was in remission when she did the London Marathon and Great North Run in 2019 not knowing she had secondary breast cancer in her bones.
"On February 15 my amazing best friend, lost her long and courageous fight with cancer."
Janella said Vicki was a respected coach in the business world and her women in leadership coaching courses will remain her legacy.
"A few years Vicki did a skydive over Dubai and, in her memory, I will be doing a skydive on August 30 to support this charity and help research and discover new treatments to help others battling this awful disease."
Speaking following her death, Vicki's husband, David, said: "Music remained her heartbeat, and she played with joy until the very end.
"Victoria will be remembered as a superb musician, world class coach, dedicated charity fundraiser, devoted mother, loving wife, loyal friend, and a woman whose laughter, faith, and compassion made the world brighter."
To donate to Janella's skydive go to https://www.justgiving.com/page/janella-calvert-4