28-06-2025
Fundraisers abseil down church for Nightingale House Hospice
The event took place at St Chad's Church in Holt on June 7 to raise money for Nightingale House Hospice.
A total of 29 supporters took part in the daring descent as part of the hospice's Longest Day, Lasting Care campaign.
St Chad's Church, Holt (Image: Nightingale House Hospice) Among them was Dan Groombridge, a long-time hospice supporter who completed the abseil alongside his son.
Mr Groombridge said: "I have a huge fear of heights, so this was a massive personal challenge for me.
"Apparently, I went very pale at the top.
Dan Groombridge, a long-time hospice supporter who completed the abseil alongside his son (Image: Nightingale House Hospice) "But I focused on why I was doing it, to support Nightingale House.
"The experience was tough in places, but nothing compared to what patients and families face every day.
"The sense of relief and pride when I reached the bottom was incredible.
The abseil was to raise money for Nightingale House Hospice (Image: Nightingale House Hospice) "I won't be rushing to do another abseil anytime soon, but I'll definitely continue to support the hospice in other ways."
Mr Groombridge's employer, The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC), has supported Nightingale House for a number of years by encouraging staff to volunteer and fundraise.
Peter Weston, a trustee at the hospice, also took part in the challenge.
Mr Weston said: "It was a fantastic experience.
"The most difficult part was climbing over the barrier at the top, but walking down the wall was surprisingly easy.
"There was a great atmosphere and plenty of encouragement from the crowd below.
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"It's a privilege to support the hospice, not only as a trustee, but through fundraising efforts like this.
"The money raised will directly contribute to the incredible care provided by our staff and volunteers, who always put patients and families first."
He encouraged others to consider taking on a challenge for the hospice.
A total of 29 people took part in the daring descent (Image: Nightingale House Hospice) Mr Weston said: "To anyone thinking about doing a challenge for Nightingale House, just do it.
"There's such a strong sense of personal achievement, and every pound raised helps the hospice continue offering high-quality care and support to those who need it most."
The Longest Day, Lasting Care campaign marks the hospice's 30th anniversary and aims to raise funds to continue its work supporting people with life-limiting conditions.
Supporters can donate via JustGiving at or by texting LONGEST10 or LONGEST20 to 70490 to give £10 or £20 respectively.
