While the London 2012 Olympics have everyone hanging on the edge of seats, one Rotarian is planning to hang off Europe’s tallest building.
Next month, Colin Maund, Rotary Club of Abingdon Vesper, will be one of 36 privileged people in the first-ever abseil down the Shard in London. The abseil will be the longest undertaken by civilians and will descend from the 87th floor of the building.
It is being organised to raise money for the Outward Bound Trust, a charity that assists disadvantaged young people. Colin has worked closely with the charity for nearly 20 years and has seen the dramatic and positive effect the programmes have on young people.
Colin said:"I am a great fan of the charity and believe that it really is one of those where the money spent can have lifelong consequences. When I retired, I was asked to become a Trustee of the charity. For that reason I have volunteered to be one of the 37 abseilers carrying out this stunt. The organiser has claimed that the event will be ‘absolutely terrifying’ which is a good start! The training day, courtesy of the London Fire Brigade, was very helpful.”
Colin’s aim is to raise £50,000 for Outward Bound. He will be joined by Ffion Hague, the wife of the Foreign Secretary, and the Duke of York. If you would like to donate, you can do so by visiting Colin’s donation page.
Rotary in the Thames Valley (District 1090) is delighted to be supporting Colin in this epic adventure. District Governor Judith Diment said: “ This is an enormously brave thing to do, and for such a good cause. We will be cheering Colin every inch of the way”.
If you are looking for a new adventure, contact your local Rotary club and discover how you can reach new heights with Rotary.
