A group of firefighters from Ryde have begun their epic charity challenge this afternoon (Saturday) – climbing the height of Mount Everest a staggering 13 times over.
Over the next 24 hours, 10 firefighters will be climbing up a 10m ladder before descending on a 25m long slide. They will do this near enough non-stop until 16:00 tomorrow afternoon and it’s all taking place on the Western Gardens next to Ryde Pier.
Originally the plan was to compete for the Guinness World Record, but for a number of reasons that is no longer the case. However, the challenge stays the same and it is hoped that ‘Everest 13’ will raise thousands for charity.
The beneficiaries for this year’s event will be the Ryde Fire Station Charity Fund which donates sums of cash, computers, music devices and other items to help make life a little easier for various local families who may find themselves in difficult, physical and emotional situations.
The Wight Brainy Bunch, which was set up by Ryde firefighter Mark Grimes and his wife Kathryn following Mark’s diagnosis of a brain tumour in February 2015, will also benefit from the funds raised.
A variety of companies have got behind the challenge with donations and support from the likes of Scania; Sydenhams; Neutrik; Pascall; HSS Hire; Maher Ross and ACE Scaffolding, among others.
Islanders and tourists alike are being urged to dig deep and give generously. The challenge can be seen taking place at the bottom of Union Street – day and night – until 16:00 on Sunday (6th August).
