Date: 7th December, 2017
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is working in partnership with the Jurassic Skyline in Weymouth to offer a unique experience to 25 members of the public to help raise funds for charity.
Successful applicants will be able to take part in a controlled abseil from the top of the Jurassic Skyline on Sunday 4 March 2018 (date subject to weather conditions).
The Jurassic Skyline, sited right on Weymouth seafront, rises gently to 53 metres (174ft). Once at the top, there are stunning views of the Jurassic Coast, Nothe Fort, Portland and Weymouth Harbour.
Firefighter Justin Rolls, from Weymouth fire station, is organising the challenge along with technical rescue colleagues on White Watch. He said: “Lots of people have enjoyed the view from the gondola; however, being allowed to abseil from the tower is limited to a select few, which is why we are working with Merlin Entertainments to provide this amazing fundraising opportunity. We are particularly keen to encourage people who might never try abseiling otherwise, for whatever reason.”
Applicants must be over the age of 18 on the day of the challenge and, due to harness restrictions, health/weight considerations will apply. The Weymouth fire station team will do their best to accommodate all ages and abilities, and full training will be given on the day of the abseil.
Justin said: “Firefighters will be in full control of lowering you in a safe and controlled manner, so all you have to do is enjoy the ride, make the most of this amazing opportunity and try to raise as much money as you can for charity! If your application is successful, we will ask you to pay a £20 registration fee, and then email you all the relevant information, paperwork and sponsorship details.”
He added: “We ask you to raise a minimum of £200 for our chosen charities before the day of the abseil. We would obviously like you to raise more if possible for our charities but, if you would like to set up your own fundraising for your own chosen cause, we are happy for you to do this – just let us know how much you raise and for who!”
The challenge will benefit the Fire Fighters Charity, SafeWise, Merlin’s Magic Wand, the Sea Life Trust and Julia’s House Hospice.
On the day, all of the firefighters and volunteers will be giving up their time whilst off duty, and Merlin Entertainments are providing the use of the Jurassic Skyline free of charge.
For more information and to apply to take part in the challenge, visit www.dwfire.org.uk/jurassic-skyline-charity-abseil – the closing date for applications is Sunday 24 December.