A 98-year-old World War II veteran has stunned Britain by becoming the oldest man ever to complete a wing walk, standing atop a flying aircraft more than 1,000 feet in the air to set a new Guinness World Record.
Harry Heasman, from Essex, achieved the remarkable feat over the weekend, fulfilling a lifelong dream while raising money for children battling cancer in memory of his late wife and son, both of whom died from the disease.
Strapped securely to a support frame mounted on the wing of an aircraft, Heasman soared through the skies above the British countryside as the plane climbed to over 1,000 feet. The daring challenge officially earned him the title of the world’s oldest male wing walker.
Despite his age, the former wartime serviceman showed no signs of fear as he embraced the experience high above the ground.
After landing safely, an elated Heasman described the flight as the most extraordinary experience of his life.
“I feel a thousand times better than I did before. It was absolutely incredible. If I had the chance, I’d do it all over again,” he said.
He added that flying had been a dream since childhood and never imagined he would achieve it at the age of 98, let alone break a world record in the process.
The record-breaking challenge was witnessed by Guinness World Records adjudicator Pravin Patel, who praised Heasman’s determination and courage.
“Meeting the physical requirements for a wing walk is already extremely demanding. To accomplish it at 98 years old requires incredible mental and physical strength. It is truly remarkable,” Patel said.
The ambitious fundraising effort began after staff at Heasman’s care home encouraged residents to create a bucket list of goals they still hoped to achieve.
When care home manager Karolyn Sisto learned of his dream to complete a wing walk for charity, she helped organise the challenge and turn the idea into reality.
To prepare for the physically demanding stunt, Heasman spent 11 months training under the guidance of physiotherapist Reef Cowell, working to improve his strength, mobility and endurance.
Sisto said the achievement had changed perceptions about what older people are capable of accomplishing.
“Harry has shown the world that life doesn’t stop in a care home. He has proven that age should never be a barrier to pursuing your dreams,” she said.
The challenge was organised in support of the Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund, a charity dedicated to helping children and families affected by cancer.
Heasman initially hoped to raise £5,000 (approximately RM28,700), but public support quickly exceeded expectations. Donations have already surpassed £7,785 (approximately RM44,700).
Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund representative Lindsey Bidwell praised the veteran’s selflessness and determination.
“Harry has shown that it is never too late to chase a dream. What he has achieved at 98 years old is extraordinary, and he has done it to help children facing cancer. He is a true national treasure,” she said.
The record-breaking feat has captured national attention across the United Kingdom, with Heasman receiving widespread praise and even appearing on a popular daytime television programme to share his inspirational story.
