Rotary International District 1090

Abingdon Vesper Rotarian abseils down London's most iconic skyscraper, the Shard!

On 3 September 2012, Colin Maund, President Elect of Abingdon Vesper Rotary Club joined the Duke of York and 36 other brave individuals in the first-ever abseil down the Shard, Europe's tallest building.

The abseil was the longest ever undertaken by civilians and descended from the 87th floor of the building.
 
It was organized to raise money for the Outward Bound Trust, a charity that assists disadvantaged young people to gain confidence, self-discipline and motivation through work in the outdoor and learning by experience. Colin has worked closely with Outward Bound for nearly 20 years and has seen the dramatic effect their programmes can have on young people and the positive effect these adventures have on raising expectations and improving self-worth. Colin adds

"I have been a great fan of the charity and believe that it really is one of those where the money spent can have lifelong consequences. When I retired OB asked me to become a Trustee of the charity.  For that reason I volunteered to be one of the 37 abseilers carrying out this stunt. Those of you who read the Times may have seen the man in charge claiming that the event will be “absolutely terrifying” which was a good start. Other intrepid adventurers participating included Ffion Hague, the wife of the Foreign Secretary and seasoned professional Chris Bonnington"

Colin would like to thank all those who generously supported him

Congratulations, Colin, hope you managed to enjoy the view! We are all just full of admiration.
 
Colin's aim is to raise £50,000 for Outward Bound.  Please donate at www.justgiving.com/colin-maund or send Colin a donation directly (made out to the Outward Bound Trust).

Read more at Descent of the Shard

See also the Mirror's take on the event!

Top left photo taken at the practice day organised by the London Fire Brigade and the RM Commandos. Above is the real deal!