Rochdale Town Hall charity abseil - dare you?

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Mayor Ray Dutton after his abseil down the Town Hall in 2016

The thrilling annual charity abseil down Rochdale Town Hall is now looking for dare devils with a head for heights.

You’ll get a bird’s eye view of Rochdale and raise cash for a good cause this August (2017) – when the famous clock tower stages the popular event as part of the 10th anniversary Rochdale Feel Good Festival.

Participants will climb to the top of the 190 foot stone tower before descending by rope. The event on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 August 2017, is being organised by Number One Riverside – Giving Back, a charity established in 2013 by council staff committed to raising money and awareness for local causes.

Funds raised will be split between Springhill Hospice and the Women’s Housing Action Group (WHAG). The hospice, based in Rochdale since 1989 provides care for people with life-limiting illnesses. WHAG provides housing and support to victims of domestic abuse.

Trustee of Number One Riverside – Giving Back, and organiser of the abseil Helen Leach said: “It’s always inspiring and rewarding to see people willing to take on a personal challenge to support local causes and I am hoping for even more of this spirit this year.

"The money raised is being donated to two amazing local charities who have been doing fantastic work in the borough for many years.

"I’m pleased we’re able to do it again and hope to be able to raise another significant amount.

"This time we have extended it to two days to enable even more people to take part, but places are still limited, so please get in touch now to book your abseil.”

There will be a strong team of qualified instructors looking after every single safety aspect, including the ascent up the tower, fitting of safety equipment and the abseil itself. Graeme Hill, a climbing instructor for over 20 years has directed the event annually since 2012 and holds a Mountaineering Instructor qualification.

There is a fee of £20 per person which will go direct to the charities. Entrants will also need to commit to raising at least £50 in sponsorship. Information and sponsor forms will be provided.

To secure a place on the abseil, which runs 9am - 3pm on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 August 2017, email:

abseil@rochdale.gov.uk