Local Pub Manager Confronts Fear of Heights for Charity
Martin Devlin, manager of the Fletcher Moss in Didsbury, South Manchester, has recently taken on an incredible challenge to raise funds for a worthy cause. On Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026, he freefell 15,000 feet in a skydive to raise an impressive £4,568 for Francis House Children’s Hospice.
Originally from Middlesbrough, Martin has called Didsbury his home for over three decades and has managed the Hydes Brewery-owned pub for 14 years. He has always been passionate about supporting his community and fundraising for a good cause, and this skydive was no exception.
The Fletcher Moss is known for its active involvement in community support and fundraising events. From hosting weekly quiz nights and acoustic nights to organizing Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve parties, the pub is always finding ways to give back. All ticket sales for these events go towards supporting Francis House Children’s Hospice, which provides respite care and support to families with children who have life-shortening or life-threatening conditions.
Martin’s support for Francis House has led him to step out of his comfort zone and take on some thrilling challenges. In the past, he has abseiled down the Trafford Palazzo Tower and now, he has taken on the ultimate fear – a skydive.
“I was on holiday lying on a beach and thinking, I need to do something this year for Francis House. I looked up at the sky and thought, skydive,” says Martin.
Despite his fear of heights, Martin described the experience as “relaxing and enjoyable.” He explains, “The adrenaline took over from the nerves, and the weather was lovely. There were other people around doing it, and you’re watching them go up and come down all the time, and you can see how much they enjoyed it.”
Martin’s fundraising efforts have been met with overwhelming support from his customers, friends, and family. Together, they have raised approximately £30,000 for the hospice over the years. This includes unique initiatives such as selling knitted chicks on the bar for the charity’s Easter appeal.
“The support from everyone has been wonderful because Francis House is a local charity, and everybody loves that. I think that’s why the skydive has been so positive because people know the hospice. People have spoken to me about Francis House and how great it is for the area and for the people and kids that go there,” says Martin.
After attending a public open day and taking a tour of the hospice’s impressive facilities, Martin has seen firsthand the impact of the hospice’s work. He shares, “You can see why the money is required; it’s such a lovely place. I’ve got a family friend whose daughter goes there for respite, and she loves it. It brings a glow to her, and she’s got a little community of friends she knows there.”
Martin is already planning his next fundraising challenge, and it’s set to be even more daring. He says, “I was talking to a customer and said I was contemplating doing a wing walk. That’s a big step up, and I’d have to lose some weight for that. I’m never going to be a marathon runner, but it’s about trying to push yourself all of the time.”
To find out more about how you can support Francis House Children’s Hospice, visit their website at https://www.francishouse.org.uk/get-involved/events/skydive/.
