Meet Betty Bromage: 97-year-old breaks her own Guinness World Record as oldest female wing walker after recovering from stroke
At an age when most people slow down, 97-year-old Betty Bromage has once again taken to the skies, this time to break her own Guinness World Record as the oldest female wing walker.The Cheltenham resident completed the daring challenge by being strapped to the top of an aircraft as it flew through the sky, raising money for the stroke unit at Cheltenham General Hospital, where she received treatment after suffering a stroke in 2025.The feat marks Bromage’s sixth wing walk, with her first completed at the age of 87. She had previously set the Guinness World Record four years ago and has now reclaimed the title by surpassing her own achievement.
Wing walk comes after recovering from stroke
Bromage suffered a stroke in 2025, which continues to affect her speech, but she said she was determined not to let it stop her from doing what she loves.“They treated me so well,” she told BCC, referring to the hospital staff who cared for her. “It affects my words, but the rest of me is fine.”Her latest wing walk was organised to raise funds for the hospital’s stroke unit as a way of thanking the medical team that helped her during her recovery.According to the hospital’s charity, donations from the fundraiser will help purchase equipment that will benefit both patients and healthcare staff.
‘I’d just get bored otherwise’
Despite approaching her 100th birthday, Bromage says she has no plans to give up adventurous challenges.“I’d just get bored of life otherwise,” she said. “I can’t drive, I can’t see very well and I get a bit frustrated. So, I want to do the things I can do.”Known for her fearless spirit, Bromage joked that the most difficult part of wing walking isn’t flying through the air, it’s climbing onto the aircraft.“The only problem is getting up on the wing because I’m quite short. Once you’re up there, no problem. The fairground is a lot worse,” she said with a laugh.
Inspired by a message from her nursing days
A former nurse, Bromage said her passion for fundraising was inspired by a quote she once saw displayed on a hospital wall.“We pass through this world but once. Any good we can do, any kindness we can show, do it now. Do not defer or neglect it. You will not pass this way again,” she recalled.She said those words have stayed with her throughout her life and continue to motivate her charitable work.
Already planning a challenge for her 100th birthday
Hospital charity representative Imogen Sims praised Bromage’s extraordinary determination, saying staff were grateful for her support.“To take on such a daring challenge to support our team is amazing,” Sims said, adding that the funds raised would make a real difference for patients and staff alike.As for what’s next, Bromage is already thinking ahead.“I’ll have to think of something when I’m 100,” she said. “Something special.”Her latest record-breaking wing walk has once again proven that age is no barrier to adventure, or to giving back to the community.
