Abseiling is no easy task, especially when it is down the side of Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower. But that is exactly what Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance’s long-time supporter and volunteer, Ed Highnam did!

At eighty years young, Ed took on the challenge and abseiled the 100-metre descent while raising funds for our life-saving charity. This was a personal test for Ed as he has never done anything like it before, but he took on the challenge to support Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, as we are a charity that is close to his heart and one that he has volunteered for, for over 10 years.

Speaking of the thrilling experience, Ed said:

I found it quite scary and well out of my comfort zone! Afraid I failed to look round at the scenery much. I didn’t actually choose to do the abseil, my son gave it to me for my 80th birthday. It would be among the last things I would choose to do, especially with the 100-metre drop.

After telling a group of friends in our Agriculture Discussion Club and one produced a cheque for £50 and said that I had to fundraise for a charity. I decided that was a great idea and so far have raised £200 for DSAA.

The trickiest part of the abseil was the crosswind pushing me around the corner. The port area was buzzing and the atmosphere was great for the fast ride to the top and the slow abseil down, followed by a huge pizza. Not being sure of my head for heights, I was quite nervous but the staff were great and I feel quite proud to have done it. I really fancy a parachute jump next!

Fancy taking on the challenge and abseiling for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance? If you want to take on the challenge and abseil for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, book your place direct with the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth and get in touch with our fundraising team by emailing: [email protected] or calling: 01823 669604.