Shirley Ballas emotional after 'terrifying' challenge for mental health charity

10 August 2023 , 14:41

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The Strictly head judge was visibly emotional after the stunt (Image: PA Wire)

In an emotional display of courage, 62-year-old Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas took to the skies in a daring 700ft wing walk to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention.

Ballas, visibly moved, soared to new heights on Thursday, strapped atop a propeller plane that took off from Headcorn Airfield near Ashford in Kent. Upon completing the challenge, she was warmly embraced by her partner, Daniel Taylor, as she wiped away tears.

Speaking to the PA news agency after the wing walk, Ballas confessed: "That was difficult and tough. I had to mentally be in a strong place to even climb up on the plane, never mind be strapped to it. But I'm so glad I did it."

This feat marks the second part of Ballas's Skyathlon challenge. Earlier this week, she flew through the air on the world's fastest zipline across Penrhyn Quarry in North Wales. The final leg of her challenge will see her skydiving across Peterborough from a staggering height of 13,000ft above ground on Saturday.

Shirley Ballas took to dizzying heights to raise money for the charity Campaign Against Living Miserably (Calm) (PA Wire)

When asked about her upcoming skydive, she admitted: "This whole week has been quite terrifying for me, but I will do it because I have promised to do it for everybody and all of their loved ones, but the thought of jumping out of an aeroplane at 13,000ft, with a 2,000ft freefall ... all I keep thinking about is 'will the parachute open'?"

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In a candid revelation, the professional dancer confessed, "So, I'm a bit nervous about that actually I'm very nervous!" She's bravely taking on a trio of challenges in support of the Campaign Against Living Miserably (Calm). The dancer turned ambassador for Calm revealed her personal connection to the cause, sharing that she "wanted to do more" for her brother, who tragically took his own life around two decades ago.

Ballas, a renowned ballroom dancer, teacher, and adjudicator, is best known as the head judge on the BBC dance competition show Strictly. She leverages this platform to further the discussion around mental health. With her ambitious Skyathlon challenge, Ballas aims to raise approximately £30,000 for Calm. The charity provides lifesaving services, including a 24-hour helpline and webchat, offering a lifeline to those in need.

*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] or visit their site to find your local branch

* This article was crafted with the help of an AI tool, which speeds up The Mirror's editorial research. An editor reviewed this content before it was published. You can report any errors to [email protected]

Amy Denman