Terminally ill man in plea to fly in helicopter in Essex

Roger Pearce, from Colchester, has compiled a bucket list of activities he wants to tick off in the final months of his life.

But he needs a little help to achieve his dreams.

So far, the 78-year-old has been treated to a chance to get up close to an owl and was able to hold one.

He has also conducted an orchestra and has been entertained by an Elvis impersonator.

Mr Pearse also requested lunch with his television crush BBC weather presenter Carol Kirkwood.

Although this was not possible, she sent a signed photo and personal letter.

Roger Pearce (centre) with Phoenix the Tawny Owl, Katie Craig, Team Leader (left) and Tony Brooke, Key Worker at ECL (right) who is organising all the activities Picture: Warren Page.

The final item on Mr Pearce’s bucket list is to fly in a helicopter to help him conquer his fear of heights.

However, Mr Pearce and the team at Colchester care provider ECL, will need the owner of a private helicopter to help fulfil this last wish.

Mr Pearce, who has terminal cancer, said: “I’ve never flown in a helicopter before and I am pretty scared of heights.

“I’ve never been on a plane either.

“We are hoping we can find someone who has a private helicopter who would be willing to give me the experience of flying in it.

“I was given six months to live by doctors, but that six months is nearly up, so I would love to be able to fly as soon as possible.”

ECL Marylands manager Sherry Mills came up with the idea for a bucket list and worked alongside Mr Pearce’s key worker Tony Brooke.

Mr Pearce, who was a St John Ambulance volunteer for many years, was feeling lonely three years ago after a series of deaths in his family, including his wife, mother and son.

He has been a regular at ECL’s Marylands day service ever since and enjoys the companionship there, as well as the care from the team.

Anyone who can help should email Tony.Brooke@essexcares.org.