Ladies leap into action for charity

TWO LISBURN women have proved that they have a head for heights by abseiling 150 feet down the Europa Hotel to raise much needed funds for Friends of the Cancer Centre.

Julie Rankin (35) from Harmony Hill, who had only ever abseiled 10 feet before, joined her friend Geraldine Heaney on a freezing day to take part in the daredevil event.

They were joined by a group of young people who were also abseiling as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award.

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“I was the 13th to go down but thankfully it was not unlucky,” said Julie. “The rush of adrenaline that you feel abseiling down the hotel is unbelieveable. I would recommend it to anyone. I just wanted to do it again.”

Julie did the abseil on behalf of her husband Alan, who has been in remission for four years after he contracted cancer. Now the pair have caught the bug they want to raise more money by taking part in a parachute jump later in the year.

Kelly Graham, Events and Community Fundraiser for Friends of the Cancer Centre, said; “Anyone who would also like to take the same plunge in the name of charity should sign up for our next Autumn abseil on Sunday, September 23 by giving ‘Friends’ a call.

“Similarly, if you missed out on this activity but would like to get active for Friends there are a number of other events you can sign up for this summer.

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“The Belvoir Forest and Lagan Valley Walk takes place on Saturday, June 2. It’s free to register and a light lunch is provided. A Dragon Boat Race is a new addition this year, taking place on Saturday 25th August on the Lagan from the Belfast Boat Club. It is £10 per person to register, which includes BBQ. There are 17 spots per team but smaller groups/individuals can be accommodated. Or why not join us for the annual Slieve Donard Challenge on Saturday September, 8 at only £10 to register.

For more information visit www.friendsofthecancercentre.com or contact Kelly on 9069 9393 or by email info@friendsofthecancercentre

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