A deaf and blind student has raised more than £600 for Vista – by jumping out of a plane.

The cash will help the Leicestershire charity continue its work with almost 6,000 registered blind and partially-sighted people in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Shane Roberts, of Newbold Coleorton, jumped out of the aircraft at 13,000ft and spent about 50 seconds in freefall, all the time securely attached to an experienced British Parachute Association instructor.

Shane said: "It was one of the best things I've ever done in my life!"

Lorna Allen, from Vista, said she was thrilled with Shane's gesture.

She said: "Shane has raised a fantastic sum through sponsorship pledges and he is a real ambassador for blind and partially-sighted people by highlighting that anything can be achieved if you put your mind to it. We are so grateful to Shane for everything he is doing for Vista."