Schoolboy takes abseil challenge for hospice youngsters

[[{“type”:”media”,”view_mode”:”media_large”,”fid”:”447″,”attributes”:{“class”:”media-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-40429″,”typeof”:”foaf:Image”,”style”:””,”width”:”683″,”height”:”1024″,”alt”:”William 1″}}]] A 13-year-old from Derby is taking on an epic challenge to raise money for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. William Black will abseil down the 212ft tower at Derby Cathedral on Saturday, 9 September with the aim of raising £200 for Rainbows. The Allestree Woodlands School pupil was excited to sign up after hearing about the event and the work of Rainbows during a talk at the school. His mum, Gill, said William was really excited by the prospect of such a challenge and determined to get involved; when they looked at the Rainbows website together, the images and stories really touched William. She added: “I am so proud of William, tackling a challenge such as this. Often young people turn to their friends before embarking on adventures, seeking their approval and companionship. I’m delighted that William has had the courage to think for himself and do something really positive from which both he and many others will benefit.” William will be cheered on during his decent by his parents Gill and Daniel, brother Cameron (18), and sister Jemma (16) as well his grandparents and family friends. He said: “I want to do this for Rainbows. I want to raise some money because everyone should have a good life.” All money raised at the sponsored event goes to Rainbows, which cares for youngsters across the East Midlands with life-limiting illnesses, including those from Derbyshire. Rainbows event organiser Ali Furlong said: “We are delighted that William is taking part in the event to help Rainbows. He should be very proud of himself for taking on such an incredible challenge and we hope he has a great day. Fundraisers like William are helping the children and young people at Rainbows and their families and without people like William, we wouldn’t be able to open our doors.” People can abseil between 9am and 7pm. Entry is £20 and Rainbows is encouraging participants to raise sponsorship money. Children under 12 are not permitted to take part. To get involved, contact 0800 952 1133, email [email protected] or visit www.rainbows.co.uk/derbyabseil