Fundraisers take on Southend Hospital tower abseil for charity

The brave souls are hoping to have raised £25,000 for hospital wards and units by taking part in the event at Southend Hospital today.

The summers sun has been shining down on the fancy dressed fundraising including Anna Firth Tory MP for Southend West.

Brave - Anna Firth MP and Helen Boyd

She took part with Tory councillor for Blenhiem Park, Helen Boyd There’s been a great atmosphere down at the hospital today with lots of supports cheering and clapping for the fundraisers.

A mixture of 70 staff, former patients and friends and relatives of patients descended the tower block using ropes.

They were all raising money for everything from Southend A&E, Broomfield Hospital’s colposcopy unit and Basildon Hospital’s breast unit.

It is the first time the popular event – organised by Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity - has been held since 2019, due to Covid, and it is hoped it will continue to reach new heights.

Fundraisers - Dee Russ and Adam Roker

Mrs Firth said: “It was scary at the top, it’s a long way down but it was wonderful to see the entire constituency and once you get going it’s ok.

“I hit the ground running and we are trying to go as fast as we can with everything. I did feel as though I could go faster but they have control of you at the top.

“I wanted to come down with councillor Helen Boyd and I think ultimately we are better together.

Charity - Frankiee Ewart and Anne McPherson

Also taking part where Dee Russ, 37, from Southend and Adam Roker, 35, from the town. Dee said: “It was amazing and it’s the first time I’ve done this but I’d definitely do it again. It was a bit scary at first but I loved it.” The pair were sponsored by Toby Carvery in Thorpe Bay and LAS Property Management in the town.