Daredevils take on Derby Abseil

Eighty people braved downpours as they scaled down Derby’s highest landmark to take part in our abseil. The even took place on Saturday 10^th September at Derby Cathedral. After climbing 189 steps to the top, adventurous participants got the rare chance to descend the 212ft tower – the second highest in the country.

Claire Lawson was taking part in the event in memory of her nephew William Furlong who was cared for by our team. William passed away at the hospice in June 2014 aged three. He had a rare and life-limiting brain condition.

She said: “Rainbows is a fantastic charity, they were really helpful and supportive and were there for myself and my family when my nephew, William, sadly passed away. I can’t thank them enough for what they did at the time, and still now, and that is why I am doing the abseil.” Philip Clowes has completed a bungee jump in the past and wasn’t too worried about the drop. He added: “Rainbows is such a brilliant cause and I am feeling okay about going down. It is a different way to spend a Saturday morning.”

61-year-old Tony Beenham loved the event so much, he has already signed up to do it again next year. Speaking after his abseil, he said: “It was absolutely brilliant. That is the only way I can sum it up. Rainbows is just fantastic. I am a member of the Rotary Club of Church Wilne and we do a lot for Rainbows, it is such a worthwhile charity.”

Rainbows volunteer Denise Ollerenshaw has raised over £800. “It was just so exhilarating,“ she said. “It was not what I expected and really good fun.” Paula North, Fundraising Manager for Rainbows in Derbyshire, thanked everyone who had taken part in, or supported the event, which is hoped to raised thousands for the work of the hospice.