Homeless man skydives for charity that saved him

Dan Perkins, who was living in a car, said he could not put Light Project Peterborough's support for him into words

A former homeless man has jumped out of a plane from 13,000ft (about 4,000m) to say thank you to a charity that saved his life.

Dan Perkins, who was living in his car last year and was close to death, undertook the jump on Saturday for Light Project Peterborough.

Mr Perkins, 48, said he "had lost everything" and "would have curled up and died" without the charity's support, which he described as "a godsend".

He said the skydive – which took place at Sibson Airfield near Peterborough – was "a small way to give back to the charity".

Dan Perkins said he hoped to raise awareness of Light Project Peterborough

Light Project Peterborough runs the Garden House near the cathedral. It is a day respite centre for rough sleepers from the city and relies on volunteers.

Mr Perkins, who has been rebuilding his life, hoped the skydive would help the charity save more lives.

"I had lost all feelings and I wanted to feel something. I wanted to feel free like a bird," he said.

"The experience was fantastic. It was unbelievable. I am so glad I have done it for my mental health but also for the charity. They saved my life."

Dan Perkins said his skydive was "unbelievable"

He added: "I didn't know where to go. The charity was a godsend and are my family now... I want to do whatever I can for them.

"I lost my house, my career, my savings. I had lost over three stone [about 20kg] in weight. I was ready to curl up in a ball and die.

"These people need to be recognised, and people who need help should be aware that it is here for everyone.

"I can't put in words what they have done for me."

'Come a long way'

Steven Pettican, of Light Project Peterborough, was excited to support the skydive

Light Project Peterborough chief executive Steven Pettican, who attended the skydive to cheer on Mr Perkins, said: "I am really excited to be here.

"He was one of the folks we helped over the past nine months and has really responded to the support he was offered.

"He has really strengthened himself and has come a long way.

"His jump today will help many people change their lives."

Mr Perkins has raised £150 so far.