Volunteers go ‘over the top’ in Rhyl Rotary’s 84‑foot charity abseil

Reverend Josh and Rotarian Tracey ‘kitted up’ for the drop overseen by St Asaph mayor Peter Scott
Reverend Josh and Rotarian Tracey ‘kitted up’ for the drop overseen by St Asaph mayor Peter Scott
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SUPPORTERS and well-wishers gathered beneath a cathedral tower to cheer on those lowering themselves 84 feet to the ground.

Brave volunteers took part in The Great Charity Abseil from the top of St Asaph Cathedral.

The event was organised by the Rotary Club of Rhyl as part of its centenary celebrations.

Going down. (Image: Alan Duke)

Reverend Canon Josh Asquith, sub-dean of the cathedral, was the first to take the plunge.

Going down. (Image: Alan Duke)

Rev Asquith said: "It has been a pleasure and a privilege to be invited to be first 'over the top' and it is a thrilling experience that I will never forget.

"I have some knowledge of abseiling but this was certainly the most exciting challenge I have ever undertaken.

"I wish the Rotary Club every success in this remarkable fund-raising event."

Crowds flock to ‘the great abseil’ (Image: Alan Duke)

The challenge was open to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Each participant raised funds through sponsorship for a charity of their choice, with St Kentigern, NSPCC, Blossom and Bloom, and Gwyrch Castle Preservation Trust among the beneficiaries.

Rotarian Tracey. (Image: Alan Duke)

Tracey Phillips, a Rotarian and NHS district nurse, was among the volunteers who took part.

Tracey said: "I have never abseiled as an adult before, and I must confess to feeling some trepidation when climbing more than 100 narrow spiraling steps to reach the top.

"However, the professional team from 'GoVertical' soon put my mind at rest when explaining what needed to be done to descend safely.

"The experience was really fulfilling and I am delighted that our wonderful team of nurses has raised so much money for the Club's charitable causes."

The youngest participant was 11-year-old Ella Hay, from Myddelton College, who chose to raise funds for St Kentigern's.

Reverend Josh going ‘over the top’. (Image: Alan Duke)

A steady crowd gathered throughout the day to watch and cheer on the abseilers.

Professor Chris Smith, treasurer of the Rhyl club and co-organiser of the event, said he expected the abseil to raise between £10,000 and £15,000—a record for the organisation.

Organisers, families, and supporters praised the abseilers and the volunteers who made the day possible.

Refreshments were served at the cathedral’s coffee bar, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Ella said: "It was a lot of fun."

Anyone interested in learning more about the Rotary Club of Rhyl can visit the club’s website for contact details.

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