A FAMILY will be scaling the heights and going over the edge for a Worcester charity.

On Sunday, April 13, Vicky, Gowenlock will abseil 120ft down House of Fraser, in Birmingham, with her mum and sister to raise cash for Acorns Children's Hospice.

The 21-year-old, who works for estate agent Andrew Grant and runs equine company EquiWah, said the idea for the family abseil was her sister Pippa's.

“When she was 15 she needed hospital treatment following a car accident so as a family we are always keen to support children’s’ charities," she said.

“Pippa already supports Acorns. Each Christmas she donates all the chocolate given to her to the Three Counties Hospice in Worcester. The abseil is a different way of helping a good cause.”

Vicky and Pippa, 23 who works at Bamboo Marketing in Worcester, will be joined by Pippa’s partner Dan Hayes, 26, and Vicky’s partner James Steele, 25 and estate agent colleague Stuart Bass, 32. Mum Kathy, 50, who works at Warwickshire College completes the abseiling team.

“We’ve all been too busy at work to be nervous about the abseil but no doubt we will be on the day," Vicky added.

“I’d encourage other people to sign up for the event. It’s a massive adrenaline rush, all the other abseilers are really friendly and there is lots of moral support. One piece of advice I’d give is not to have a heavy meal beforehand."

Ian Carr, events manager at Acorns, the hospice was hoping to raise enough money from the event to run one of its hospices for one day and was encouraging all to take on the challenge, which people could still sign up for.

“Whether you are looking to overcome a fear of heights or want to experience the excitement and thrill of a new challenge it’s the perfect way to achieve your goal and raise vital funds for Acorns. Fancy dress is optional but we’re expecting the abseil to bring out the inner Spider-Man in some of our supporters," he said.

“We don’t charge families for making use of our services, regardless of the ever increasing costs involved. We rely heavily on public fundraising and voluntary donations from events such as this to provide us with the majority of the funding we need to operate.”

The event is open to all abilities aged over 12, and training by professionals is provided on the day. Participants are charged £15 entry fee and are required to raise at least £75. Organisers are aiming to raise enough money to run a hospice for one day.

For more information or to register, visit acorns.org.uk/charity-abseil. Companies or organisations interested in sponsorship opportunities should contact the Events Team on 0844 9840405 or events@acorns.org.uk.

To find about the work of Acorns Children’s Hospice, call 0845 1206892 or visit acorns.org.uk.