AFTER two setbacks, a local mum has finally completed a skydive to raise awareness and funds for postnatal illness. Charlotte Wilmer-Barbrook, aged 39, from London Colney, was due to do the 13,500-foot jump at the end of last year but was prevented from d

AFTER two setbacks, a local mum has finally completed a skydive to raise awareness and funds for postnatal illness.

Charlotte Wilmer-Barbrook, aged 39, from London Colney, was due to do the 13,500-foot jump at the end of last year but was prevented from doing so on two occasions because of a fuel leak on the plane.

Eight years ago she suffered from the severest form of postnatal illness following the birth of her first child and upon her recovery she established Herts Postnatal Illness Support along with another sufferer.

Last week's skydive was aimed at raising awareness about the charity which offers advice and guidance to mums and dads from those who have experienced the trauma themselves. More than £1,500 was also raised in sponsorship.

Charlotte, of St Anne's Road, who attempted suicide three times when she had her illness, said the skydive was the "most exhilarating, exciting and nerve-wracking feeling in the world".

She added: "The extraordinary peace that comes as you begin to float to earth accompanied by the breath-taking views leaves you feeling so lucky to be alive. It was at that moment that I thought about all those women who have postnatal illness and the crippling symptoms with which they cope. Then I screamed with joy at being alive and well to help those mums still suffering."

Another mum, Sally Tyers, was also supposed to be jumping but a back injury forced her to postpone it and Charlotte's husband took her spot instead.

They are both now looking forward to their next jump.

Charlotte added: "On behalf of all the trustees, we would like to thank all our official sponsors as well as everyone who has supported our skydive. To those people who have already asked would we do it again, you bet your life we would!"

For more information or to make a donation to the charity, visit www.postnatalillness.co.uk