BRIXHAM fisherman John Atkinson is swapping the sea for the sky to take a daring leap of faith in aid of his sick son Corbyn.

John and his fishing pal Dean Thomas are planning a sponsored skydive on July 20 to raise money for the Haemophilia Society.

John's son Corbyn, three, was diagnosed with severe haemophilia when he was a baby. Haemophilia is a rare and incurable blood disorder where the blood does not clot as it should.

Much of Corbyn's young life has been spent in hospital and his parents John and Natalie administer daily medication to their son to help stop bleeding that could cause permanent damage to his joints or muscles.

Although John is scared of heights and fearful of flying, he is determined to jump out of a plane for his son.

"I'm nervous, definitely," he said.

"I don't really like going on planes that much when we're going on holiday — it's the height thing.

"But it's got to be a challenge else it's not worth doing and I will do it on the day because it's for my son.

"And I've got my mate to come with me because I know he will definitely jump out because he's a bit of an adrenalin freak.

"When Corbyn was diagnosed with haemophilia we had never heard of it. The Haemophilia Society has helped us out on lots of occasions.

"They've supported us in getting the best possible care for Corbyn, giving us information about holidays and benefits and most of all financial help to cover the costs of staying in London and Cardiff when Corbyn was admitted as an inpatient, and supplying us with a fridge to keep his medication in.

"We just want to give something back to say thank you."

Dean, 37, of Glenmore Road, works with John on board The Danielle scalloper.

He said: "I'm doing this because it's for a good cause. John's been a friend for many years and Corbyn is wicked.

"To me he's been very isolated and it's taken a lot for him to gain my trust.

"He has now opened up to me and given me the trust and I just want to help give him a lease of life. It must be hard for all of them."

Natalie is helping to raise money for the society by holding a raffle at The Burton pub, Burton Street, on July 17 at 2pm.

She said: "I would like to thank the pub which is holding a free barbecue on the day and all the businesses who have donated raffle prizes.

"We just want to raise awareness and gather support for this very worthwhile cause that is close to our family.

"For the last few months Corbyn's life has greatly improved with less bleeds and even enabling us to go on family holidays.

"He's a very happy three-year-old boy and all we want is to give him as much of a normal life as possible."

To sponsor John and Dean visit www.justgiving.com/johnatkinson-deanthomas