An award winning daily newspaper reporter faced her fear of heights head-on when she took part in a bungee jump to raise funds for a cancer hospice which treated her dad.

Burton Mail reporter Katie Bowler, who gained the award for top trainee reporter at last year’s Awards for Excellence run by the National Council for the Training of Journalists, took part in the 160 foot jump in the hope of conquering her fear.

Writing about the experience in the paper, Katie said: “No matter how long you have spent mentally preparing yourself for it, and despite being tied to a harness and an 80ft-long elastic bungee cord, it’s a personal moment of truth.

“But, with my dad in mind, and knowing I would be helping others who receive support and care from St Giles Hospice, I put my fears aside and took the plunge after a three-second countdown.

She added: “I have done a fair few crazy things in my life, but the buzz and the adrenaline rush from this experience was like no other.

“It was a moment of sheer madness, courage or maybe just pure insanity, but it’s certainly left me with a memory which will last a lifetime.

“After conquering my phobia of heights, literally head-on, I feel like I can do anything or take on any challenge.”

Katie did the jump at the West Midlands Waterski Centre on Saturday and raised at least £300 for St Giles Hospice which treated Katie’s father who is now in remission.

The charity provides specialist care to people suffering from cancer and other serious illnesses

Added Katie: “I would like to thank my amazing family and friends for their support on the day, as well as all my workmates, contacts through work and everyone else who sponsored me.

“The generosity and support has been overwhelming.”

Donations can still be made c/o the Burton Mail, 65-68 High Street, Burton on Trent, DE14 1LE.