In an inspiring blend of courage, community spirit and good humour, 18 members of the Andover community are preparing to leap from the skies on Saturday 9th August — not for the thrill (well, partly), but to raise vital funds for Naomi House & Jacksplace.
Each year, The Andover Tap at The Lamb – a much-loved town centre pub – selects a charity to support through a series of events and fundraising activities involving both staff and customers. This year, the chosen cause is Naomi House & Jacksplace, hospices that provide expert care for more than 550 children, young adults, and their families facing life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.
To mark this year’s effort in truly sky-high fashion, the pub’s daring team — affectionately nicknamed the Woolly Jumpers — will take on a tandem skydive at Old Sarum Airfield near Salisbury, with jumps scheduled around 1:00pm. The team includes pub staff, regulars, and friends who’ve rallied together not only to raise money, but to celebrate the powerful sense of community that makes The Andover Tap more than just a pub.
Every Penny Straight to Charity
What’s even more impressive? Each of the 18 jumpers is funding their own skydive — meaning that every single pound donated goes directly to Naomi House & Jacksplace. At the time of writing, £6,350 has been raised through the skydive alone, with additional pub-based fundraising pushing the total close to an incredible £10,000.
The pub’s target for the year is £10,000 — a goal they’re on track to beat, thanks to events like this and the generosity of the local community. Last year, the pub raised around £8,000 for an Alzheimer’s charity. This year, they’re aiming higher in every sense.
“It’s about more than just raising money — it’s about giving something back,” says pub manager Matthew Mutton. “Naomi House has been amazing with us — they’ve hand-written letters, they visit us, and they’ve been so grateful and supportive. That makes it even more rewarding.”
Matt & Vicki joined Ben Tuffin on Andover Radio, here is the interview below:
More Than a Pub — A Community Hub
For many locals, The Andover Tap isn’t just where you go for a pint — it’s where you go to feel part of something. It’s a place where friendships are made, support is offered, and the wider community benefits from the pub’s heart and hustle.
“We’re like a really annoying family,” laughs Matt. “But it’s a family. Everyone’s welcome. It’s a proper community. That’s what pubs like this are all about.”
One of the jumpers, Vicky — the spirited manager of the Gin Palace — explained on Andover Radio how she signed up while drunk, and before that, at a funeral.
“I’ve got to stop doing this,” she joked. “But honestly, the support we’ve had, and the thanks from Naomi House — it just makes you want to do more. I’m nervous, but proud to be part of it.”
After the jump, the Woolly Jumpers and supporters will be heading to Dark Revolution Brewery, where a special beer — aptly named “Woolly Jumpers” — will be on tap to mark the occasion. Around 60 people are expected to head over and toast the efforts of the team.
Why Naomi House & Jacksplace?
Naomi House & Jacksplace provide a lifeline for families across central southern England. They offer specialist care and support for children and young adults with complex medical needs — from vital respite breaks to emergency care and end-of-life support.
Their vision is that every family receives the care they need, where and when they need it, for as long as they need it. That includes a calm, fun and welcoming environment where children can be children — and where families can rest, regroup, and find moments of peace.
By supporting the Woolly Jumpers’ skydive, you’re helping Naomi House continue this essential work.
How to Donate
Want to show your support for these skydiving heroes? It’s easy.
✅ Donate now via JustGiving:
https://www.justgiving.com/team/andover-tap-woolly-jumper
✅ Watch the jump at Old Sarum Airfield, 9th August, approx. 1:00pm
✅ Celebrate at Dark Revolution Brewery and raise a pint of Woolly Jumpers with the team
Final Word
Whether you’re cheering from the ground, sipping a beer in solidarity, or donating online, every bit of support makes a difference. In a time when many pubs are struggling to survive, The Andover Tap shows exactly why we should fight to keep them alive — not just for the beer, but for the heart, the people, and the change they make in our community.
