Abseil Fundraiser Huge Success

Last Saturday saw the triumphant return of Wakefield Cathedral’s annual Abseil Fundraiser after a post-covid break. 34 brave and determined locals gathered to take on the towering heights of the cathedral’s iconic tower, all in the name of raising funds for causes close to their heart. Among the charities chosen were Wakefield Pride, Mid-Yorkshire Hospitals, Suicide Prevention UK and Wakefield Cathedral itself.

Age was no barrier among the abseilers as participants ranged from teenage daredevils to the eldest at a remarkable 81 years old. There were multiple groups of colleagues and friends, and even several parent-child abseiling pairs. One family had a triple-generation abseiling team!

Among the courageous fundraisers was George, a Wakefield Cathedral chorister who fearlessly descended the cathedral tower in full chorister dress, adding a touch of elegance and tradition to the thrilling event. Also among the abseilers was British and global multi-medalist gymnast Issy Haigh and Mark Eastwood, MP for Dewsbury. The diversity among abseilers, and their chosen causes, was both evident and heartening.

The Wakefield community have rallied around the abseilers, supporting and sponsoring them in their fundraising journey.  As the sponsorship money is still being counted, it is already evident that the generosity of these supporters has exceeded expectations, with the funds raised for Wakefield Cathedral alone nearing £3500.

Special thanks go to all abseilers, their sponsors, Terry Rigg for volunteering his time to help organise the event, our photographer for the day Whitfield Benson and Fyffes for the two crates of bananas to share with the attendees.

This beautiful showcase of community spirit and charity awareness will return next autumn. To be the first in the know, join the Wakefield Cathedral mailing list here.

See the full photo gallery from the event below.