AN Acomb man with a life-changing illness will take part in a bungee jump next month.

Ian Wood, 37, from Acomb, was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease in 2002 which has left him visually impaired and needing a wheelchair, but he will take part in the 160 foot bungee jump at Manchester Quays on July 11.

Three years ago, Ian took part in a sponsored sky dive, but said he hoped to raise even more money this time, for three charities, Children In Need, Mitochondrial Research at Newcastle University and Disability Snowsport UK.

He said: "I'm really looking forward to it, I can't wait. I'm hoping to raise about £1,000 for each charity.

"I just like raising money for charity and thought what else could I do. I've been in a wheelchair permanently for six years, and I'm visually impaired as well, so obviously I can't run a marathon."

Mitochondrial disease can be devastating, but since his diagnosis, Ian has taken part in a number of charity events, including the Sport Relief Mile in 2010, when he was pushed by an assistant.

He said he has not let his illness prevent him doing things he loves, which is why he wants to raise money and awareness of DSUK.

He said: "You just get on with it an do whatever you can. They help us using adapted chairs so disabled people can go skiing, and their weekend events are incredible.

"I ski and use FitSki, where I'm tethered to a guy holding a rope behind me, but the aim is to do it without being tethered. Though I would still need someone shouting directions to me."

To donate to Ian's fund, go to justgiving.com/Ian-wood21/ or text mito80 to 70070 with the amount you wish to donate.