Some 120 brave fund-raisers recently assembled at Pembroke Dock Fire Station to register and prepare for their sponsored 160 feet free abseil from the Cleddau Bridge. Mini buses transported them to the Cleddau Bridge, where they were left in the capable hands of the dispatchers.
The weather was perfect for the occasion, and most of the novice abseilers were a little anxious prior to their decent, but soon gained confidence on their way down into the boat awaiting them, which left them with a great sense of achievement, excitement and the want to do it again, once on dry land at the Jolly Sailor.
A complimentary T-shirt and cap marking their mean feat was awaiting, and all abseilers will further receive a personalised photograph and certificate at a special presentation night to be held on October 12, at the Cleddau Bridge Hotel.
The event organisers are anticipating raising in the region of £70,000, although the final figure will not be available until a later date, as many fund-raisers are still working hard gathering their sponsorship (it isn't too late to make a donation, if you wish, please see the website http://www.cbac.fslife.co.uk">www.cbac.fslife.co.uk) as all money raised will go towards the Noah's Ark Appeal and a locally based children's charity.
Thanks must be extended to all those who helped make the event the success it was, Dyfed-Powys Police, the Cleddau Bridge Hotel, the Prince's Trust, Mid and West Wales Fire Brigade, Pembroke Dock ATC and Pembrokeshire County Council.
In addition, there were many individual volunteers, too extensive to mention, that contributed. Last, but by no means least, thanks to all the abseilers, who have not only worked so hard in gaining their £500 sponsorship (many well exceeding this amount), but for being brave enough to 'leave go' at the top of the bridge. Congratulations and well done.