Daredevils to scale new heights for charity

20/03/03

Daredevils to scale new heights for charity

The Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB) has teamed up with Kingston University for a challenge not for the faint-hearted.

At least 160 thrillseekers will abseil down the side of the university's 100 foot Penrhyn Road tower block later this month to raise funds for the blind and partially-sighted.

A similar event last year raised more than £25,000 and organiser Hazel Floodgate is hoping for an even better response on April 27. "Kingstonians proved they were really up for the challenge in 2002," she said. "The Kingston abseil is a vital part of our RNIB fundraising and it would be fantastic to raise even more money this year."

There is still time for adventurous locals to sign up. No experience is necessary, with training provided by expert instructors. Anyone over 16 can take part but participants need to be reasonably fit. Entrants must pay £10 to secure their place on the ropes and pledge to raise a further £75.

Anyone interested in taking part should contact the event hotline on 07951 989204.