RESEARCH into brain tumours will receive a boost thanks to a patient who will take on a 150ft abseil challenge later this month.

Matt Jeffries and his wife Louise will make the ‘Dartmoor Drop’ on June 17 in aid of Brain Tumour Research after he had a tumour successfully removed four years ago.

The couple, from Wotton-under-Edge, will descend from Meldon Viaduct – one of the last wrought iron constructions in the country.

Matt, 44,said that he was “lucky” his tumour was relatively minor but that many people had been less fortunate than him.

“I count myself lucky,” he said. “My brain tumour was a very rare but low-grade colloid cyst and was removed by surgery.

“I didn’t need any follow-up treatment and I have gone on to live my life fully. There are many, many others who are not so fortunate.

“My wife Louise talked me into doing the abseil. I’m not a massive fan of heights but I’m determined to do it and to raise money for this vital research.

“Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer yet just one per cent of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease.”

Matt’s tumour was discovered after an MRI scan was ordered to try to get to the bottom of shingles-like pain he had been experiencing.

Hanson UK, which Matt works for, will match-fund the money he raises up to £500.

To sponsor him visit JustGiving https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Matthew-Jefferies5

Brain Tumour Research funds a network of centres including one at Plymouth University where scientists are focused on improving treatments and finding a cure for low-grade tumours like the one Matt had.

Places for the abseil are still available and more information is available at braintumourresearch.org/dartmoor-drop