Dan Cheney
6 days ago
News

Northamptonshire father to brave UK’s tallest abseil

Ian Spence will be on edge this Saturday, quite literally, as he begins his descent on the iconic Northampton Lift Tower.

A photo of soon to be abseiler, Ian.

Standing at a dizzying 418ft, the Tower is the UK’s tallest permanent Abseil site, giving Ian a stunning 360 degree view of the town and surrounding areas.

Ian will be taking on this challenge on behalf of NAB – Sight Support for Northamptonshire. The charity helps visually impaired people in the county to live life to the full with support, advice and gadgets.

An abseiler on the side of the Northampton Lift Tower
An abseiler on the side of the Northampton Lift Tower Credit: NAB Sight Support in Northamptonshire

This cause is particularly close to Ian’s heart as his son, Hugh, has been blind since the age of 16. Hugh received support from NAB quickly after losing his sight, and after some time volunteering he began work at the charity. He is now the Children, Families and Activities Manager and one of NAB’s longest serving members of staff.

The chance to take on such an awe-inspiring challenge, while giving back to the charity which has been a massive part of his son’s life, was too good of an opportunity to miss.

‘I am raising funds for NAB as they were there for my son when he left school. We approached them for help on the next steps to finding a job, and he is now a member of the management team. I want to raise money so they can continue to help the blind and partially sighed with all the great services they provide. Without them I don’t know what my son’s life would be like.’ 

Ian’s fundraising is going strong, but he still needs more support.

There are thousands of other children, adults and families in Northamptonshire that, like Hugh, could benefit greatly from the kind and caring support of NAB.

To donate, please go to https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ianabseil25