Annual Extreme Abseil raises more than £60,000 for hospital charity

Brave fundraisers took on a 135ft descent in wet and windy conditions down Ipswich Hospital's iconic tower this weekend, raising more than £60,000 for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.

Over two days, more than 160 participants stepped over the edge of the hospital tower to support causes close to their hearts, with many raising funds for the charity's Time Garden Appeal. The appeal aims to transform an unused courtyard at Ipswich Hospital into a peaceful and accessible space for patients receiving end-of-life care and their loved ones.

The annual Extreme Abseil, proudly sponsored by Eastern Lift Services, saw participants ranging in age from 12 to 82 conquer their

fears while raising vital funds to support patients, families and staff across East Suffolk and North Essex.

Among those taking part were members of the Seeds of Hope group, who completed the challenge in memory of their friend Dave Eaton from Debenham while raising funds for the Time Garden Appeal.

Sarah Corner from the Seeds of Hope support group said: "We wanted to support the Time Garden Appeal in memory of Dave, who sadly passed away. Dave was a much-loved member of our community and taking part in the Extreme Abseil felt like a fitting way to honour him while raising money for a cause that means so much.

"This is just the start for us. We have lots more fundraising planned throughout the year and we're proud to be supporting a project that will leave a lasting legacy for patients and their loved ones."

Gavin Lamb, Corporate and Events Fundraising Manager at Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, said: "What an incredible weekend. Every person who stepped over the edge of the tower showed tremendous courage and determination, and the amount raised is simply phenomenal.

"The money raised will make a real difference to patients and families across our hospitals. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part, donated, volunteered or supported the event in any way.

"The atmosphere throughout the weekend was fantastic and it was inspiring to hear so many personal stories from our fundraisers about why they chose to take on the challenge."

The charity would also like to thank event sponsor Eastern Lift Services for their support, alongside the many volunteers who gave their time throughout the weekend to help make the event such a success.

To find out more about upcoming fundraising events, visit here.

Time Garden Appeal

The Time Garden at Ipswich Hospital is being created to provide a homely, comforting space, away from the busy hospital environment, so people facing the end of their life can spend time with those they love – somewhere time truly matters. This space will be somewhere for sensitive conversations, reflection and lasting memories, at a time when hope and positivity may feel lost. By donating, you can help us improve the experience of end-of-life and loss.