Caring teenager Taylor Birkin has said thank you to all the people who supported his charity skydive to mark his 16th birthday.

Taylor has raised more than £500 for the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance. In May 2015 the charity helped family friend David Smith, when his motorcycle came off the road.

Sadly David, who worked as a panel beater for Pro Refinishing, Sutton, later died in hospital.

Taylor, a student at All Saints’ Catholic Academy, said: “I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported me.”

Taylor’s sister, Sadie, was born on the same day as David’s daughter, Mia, who was featured in the News Journal last year for her fundraising for the air ambulance in memory of her dad. The two girls have been lifelong friends and in the same classes at Flying High Academy, Mansfield.

Taylor added: “It has been an honour to represent Mia; her mum, Debbie Hannah; and, of course, David.

“I would also like to remind people that the JustGiving link is still live for anyone still wishing to donate to this worthy cause.”

Taylor said he chose to help the air ambulance because it relies solely on donations for the ambucopter and team to be able to attend emergencies and carry out lifesaving treatment.

“That is why I chose them as my sponsored charity,” he added. “Every donation, no matter how big or small, is greatly appreciated towards this amazing cause.”

To support Taylor’s fundraising, which took place at Langar Airfield, Nottingham, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/taylor-birkin