A LOCAL man has been praised for his "superhuman" efforts to raise money for charity which saw him skydive from 15,000ft and complete the London Marathon - despite an ankle injury.

Ben Browning, who works at BASF Metals Recycling Ltd in Cinderford, took on the challenges this year to raise more than £2,000 for Gloucestershire-based charity TIC+, which supports children and young people who are struggling with their mental health.

And now BASF have pledged an additional £1,000 on top of the amount raised by Ben to help the charity.

TIC+ says the donation will be "particularly welcome" in a year that the charity has seen demand for counselling support reach its highest point in the 27 years of its existence.

Fundraising and support from commissioners has enabled TIC+ to employ additional counsellors and referral staff this year, as well as adapt their services to be able to see more children and young people more quickly.

On his fundraising challenges, Ben said: "I’ve had a blast this year ticking some things off my bucket list, and to be able to help a brilliant local charity with its work is such a bonus.

"I’m really grateful to BASF for helping further with this generous donation".

Chris Turner, Site Manager at BASF, said: "We are delighted to be able to donate to a local charity delivering great support and service to young people, parents and their families in Gloucestershire.

"It’s always good to know that help is available locally for anyone who may need it, and we are so pleased to be able to contribute towards maintaining this free service through a donation to TIC+."

Carolyn Roulstone, Head of Fundraising & Communications at TIC+, said: "We are truly blessed with some incredible fundraisers who go above and beyond to help raise funds to support our work and ensure that our services continue to be provided free of charge to all children and young people throughout the county.

"This donation from BASF on top of Ben’s own fundraising efforts really is the icing on the cake, and is especially fitting at this time of year when giving gifts is high on everyone’s agenda.

"We are extremely grateful to BASF for recognising Ben’s efforts and the importance of our work with this additional donation of £1,000."