Teesside Grandma, 90, Thoroughly Enjoys Helicopter Ride Over Her Village

A 90-year-old grandmother from Kirk Merrington, near Spennymoor, has fulfilled a long-held dream by taking a helicopter ride over her village, the BBC reported.

Joan Airey received flight tickets as a surprise birthday present from her family, who initially tried to talk her out of the idea. The grandmother of two had insisted on the flight after seeing helicopters over her house all her life and wanting to see the countryside from a different angle.

Seated at the front during Sunday's ride, Airey flew over Redcar coast and Roseberry Topping, taking many photographs along the way. Her son took her to Teesside Airport for the flight, which had previously been delayed due to bad weather.

"It was just so, really, fun," Airey told the BBC. "All I can say is it was amazing, absolutely, and I thoroughly enjoyed it."

Her granddaughters Martha and Anna said she was really difficult to buy for and were hesitant at first, but noted that the nonagenarian was quite emotional after the experience.

Airey called it "the best present I've ever had," but said she has no more daring plans in the future, declining suggestions for a parachute jump or balloon ride.