THE year 2024 was a momentous one for a stalwart charity fundraiser in Bridgerule, who not only received a British Empire Medal (BEM) but took on her most epic challenge to date — a freefall tandem skydive.

Sheila Cholwill, 75, and her family are well known for their charity work in aid of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) and more specifically it’s Little Harbour hospice.

The Cholwill family began supporting CHSW after their son Mark, who was severely disabled, passed away.

They have raised funds each year for the charity through various means, but perhaps their most notable fundraiser is the sale of their iconic wooden Christmas reindeers.

Their inspiration for creating this fundraising scheme came at a sad time for the family, however, little did they realise that the reindeer were going to be such a popular item to buy at Christmas time for so many people.

Over the years they have raised in excess of £50,000.

It is in honour of this work that Sheila was recipient of a BEM during the 2024 New Year Honours for a 'hands on' service to the local community and services to charity.

Sheila Cholwill was surrounded by family and friends during the presentation of her BEM
Sheila Cholwill was surrounded by family and friends during the presentation of her BEM ( )

The Investiture took place at County Hall Exeter. However, Sheila decided that she would like a presentation to be held a little closer to home. So, at the village carol service held in the chapel in Bridgerule on December 22, Sheila requested that the medal be presented to her again with her family and friends present.

This took place among the decorated Christmas Tree display which proved very popular when the chapel opened on two occasions for viewing. Sheila joined the Tamarside Singers at the event, who sang three carols during the service, making it a festive experience for all.

A village spokesperson added: “Many congratulations Sheila - at last a reward for all you do for our village and Children's Hospice South West.”

Further congratulations went to Sheila when she collected £2,000 for Little Harbour children's hospice after bravely taking on a freefall tandem skydive. The freefall took just 60 seconds from 15,000 feet at an incredible 120mph. Coming through the clouds she said she could see from Weston-super-Mare all the way across to Barnstaple and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Sheila being 75 years old is now known as 'SuperGran' by her family — another achievement to be proud of.

Little Harbour supports life-limited children from Cornwall, Plymouth and the surrounding area and their families, as well as bereaved families.

The hospice is on hand for short breaks, respite, emergency stays, end of life care and bereavement support. The hospice offers a sanctuary for families where they can handover the 24-hour care of their child and just enjoy time together making precious memories.

If anyone is interested in raising funds to help support the work of CHSW at its Little Harbour children’s hospice, visit the website www.chsw.org.uk or call Little Harbour on 01726 871800 and speak to the fundraising team.