Aisling takes the plunge for charity

AISLING Twomey will be ‘freezin for a reason’ when she takes the plunge for charity next month.

Aisling, who works for the SDLP in Lisburn, decided to take the ‘Polar Plunge’ to raise money for Special Olympics Ulster.

On December 15 Aisling, along with a hundred other people, will jump into the Irish Sea at Newcastle Harbour and donate the money she has raised to the charity.

“I am not able to run a marathon and don’t have a head for heights to abseil down a building, but talked myself into jumping into the icy cold Irish Sea for Special Olympics Ulster,” explained Aisling.

“The Special Olympics is something I have always supported, it is a great charity providing sport for people with an intellectual disability. But most importantly it’s about fun, friendships and developing team spirit. Some of my family members work with a local club in North Belfast and I have been lucky to meet some of the amazing athletes at Stormont.

“Cold though I may well be after jumping into the water, this event promises to be a fun filled challenge. I know how generous the Lisburn people can be and I urge them to support me in my challenge. People can sponsor me directly on the special fundraising page I have set up on Special Olympics website.”

Regional Fundraising Co-ordinator for Special Olympics Ulster, Ronan McCay said: “The Polar Plunge will see around one hundred brave souls taking a plunge into the Irish Sea at the Harbour in Newcastle on Saturday, December 15.

“We are asking every participant to raise a minimum of £100 for the privilege, with every penny we raise being invested in the sporting programme we provide for our athletes. Volunteers and athletes from local Special Olympics Clubs will be there on the day to encourage ‘Plungers’ into the water and to thank them for their kind support.”

Anyone wishing to participate should contact Ronan McCay on 028 9089 2996 or at [email protected]. Participants must be eighteen or older.