British Red Cross dares Derbyshire residents to take the plunge

The Peak District Drop challenge is being organised as part of the charity’s annual fundraising drive Red Cross Week, which takes place in May.

The abseil is open to anyone aged over 16 brave enough to take on the challenge of dropping over the edge of the viaduct, descending just 10ft touching brick before stepping off and free-abseiling the remaining 70ft over the rushing River Wye with just ropes and a harness for support.

Alex Gadsby, community fundraiser for the Red Cross took part herself last year. She said,

“I’m not exactly terrified of heights but this challenge certainly pushed that theory to the test!

“The rush of adrenaline you get when you step through the fence with nothing but a rope between you and a big drop down is phenomenal. When it came to it I was petrified, but the abseil guys were great spurred me on. Now I’d like to know if anyone in Ripley is brave enough!”

The charity has a limited number of places available and anyone interested in taking part is invited to contact Alex for more information as soon as possible.

No prior preparation or training is needed, as all instruction will be given by professional abseilers on the day.

All participants will receive dedicated support including a comprehensive fundraising pack full of fun and creative ideas to help them reach their fundraising target, as well as a bespoke online fundraising page and one to one contact.

The British Red Cross asks that all participants raise £100 and there is a £10 registration fee.

Participants can sign up at www.redcross.org.uk/peakdistrictdrop or contact Alex Gadsby on 01158 528016 or [email protected].