Take the plunge to raise hospice cash (From Swindon Advertiser)

Take the plunge to raise hospice cash

7:00pm Friday 1st June 2012 in News By Katie Bond

FUNDRAISERS with a head for heights are being asked to take part in a dizzying abseil from a hotel roof in the town centre – all in the name of charity.

Abseil For Prospect, on July 15, is just one of many activities taking place over the summer to raise money for Prospect Hospice.

The event sees brave participants abseiling a heart-stopping 130ft – approximately 12 storeys – from the top of Jurys Inn, in Fleming Way, to raise funds for the charity.

Last year, more than 80 people between the ages of 10 and 80 took part in the event at the County Ground, abseiling 83ft from the top of the Don Rogers Stand and raising more than £15,000 in sponsorship.

This year, the organisers are hoping that, at nearly 50ft higher, the event will offer an unforgettable experience to even the most adventurous fundraiser.

“We decided to go all out for this year’s event, and I think we’ve got possibly the highest abseil that we could do in Swindon,” said event organiser Mela Durston.

“The views from the top are fantastic and it’s going to offer a really spectacular challenge to anyone who wants to give it a go.

“This challenge is that it really is open to anybody. Last year we had an 80-year-old lady and several 10-year-old children take part.

“Full training will be given on the day, and the abseil is being run by a highly experienced company.

“We’re trying to get everyone to pledge to raise £100 in sponsorship.”

Prospect Hospice looks after 1,800 patients with life-limiting illnesses – and their families and carers – every year. In total, the services that Prospect offers costs £5.1m every year, which is raised through the community.

Abseil For Prospect is open to teams or individuals aged 10 and over. Anyone under the age of 16 will require parental consent.

To register, visit www.

prospect-hospice.net/abseil or call the fundraising team on 01793 816161.