I really enjoyed my day performing a tandem skydive at Headcorn Parachuting Club, Headcorn Airfield, near Maidstone in Kent.

I arrived about 9.30 (earlier at weekends) on a sunny October morning. Tandem skydiving happens most days and there are easy directions to help to sign in. You are then taken for a briefing or “training” where a professional explains what to expect and do, very clearly and carefully but with the emphasis on having a great jump! I was first that day and three of us were kitted out in flying gear and harness, we then walked out to the small aircraft, and took off with our cameramen (optional) and instructors.

The plane flies up to 10,000ft or 15,000 ft if clearance allows. At a certain height you are strapped securely to your instructor, sat on his lap and then, trying to remember what you do, you are “wriggled” towards the open door.

The next thing, before you know it you are in freefall for about 5,000ft or 45 seconds. All the work is done for you by the professional and then they deploy the parachute.

Suddenly it all goes very quiet, serene and SLOW. You are sitting in your harness with this wonderful view of the world .You can chat and my instructor pointed out the sights. I could see as far as Eastbourne and Canvey Island etc. If you want you can do a bit of steering, or not whatever you prefer.

All too soon you are nearing the ground, feet up so Clem can do a lovely soft landing, a really great feeling. I then stayed about to have a coffee and some lunch, and enjoyed watching the others do their jump.