Seven members of the Ukrainian Rotary Impact Club of Rutland underwent a daring 418ft abseil to raise vital funds for their Wheelchairs for Ukraine project. 

On Saturday 16th August, seven members of the group went over the edge at the National Abseil Centre in Northampton to raise funds to send vital wheelchairs, walking aids and other mobility equipment directly to hospitals, rehabilitation centres and families in Ukraine. 

A team from the Ukrainian Rotary Impact Club headed to Northampton for their abseil (Photo: URICR)

Participants ranged from Nika, age 13, to Bruce, age 80 all bravely went over the edge, raising over £1,500. 

Nika, age 13, took part with her mother Nadia, said: 'I was amazed that at my age I could already do something to help people in Ukraine. It was scary at first, then exciting and I'm proud I did it.' 

'I'm absolutely terrified of heights,' admitted Nadia, 'I'm proud that we not only raised vital funds but, more importantly, raised awareness of the war in Ukraine and the need to support people living with its consequences.' 

The abseil wall they descended is the highest permenant abseilling point in the UK (Photo: URICR)

There was a real spirit and strength within the group, supporting each other during the challenge.  

Yevhen, 16, said: 'Abseiling down that tower with Nika was unforgettable – a mix of nerves, adrenaline and fun. I'm glad we could do it together and support such an important cause.' 

Tetiana Zubatova felt empowered by the support of the group to complete the challenge, saying: 'It was an incredible and emotional experience, and I was proud to share this moment with my 16-year-old son. Stepping over the edge was terrifying, but the feeling that followed was unforgettable – an overwhelming mix of fear, excitement and strength. 

The team supported each other throughout the whole descent (Photo: URICR)

'What made it even more powerful was the support from our amazing team, who kept shouting our names and cheering us on. Their energy carried us through the descent, and at the halfway point of the tower, I couldn't hold back and shouted, "Glory to Ukraine!"' 

The group were joined by a member of the Ukrainian Rotary Impact Club's mother club – the Rotary Club of Rutland.  

Bruce joined the team from the Rotary Club of Rutland (Photo: URICR)

President of the Rutland Rotary Club Bruce Strickland, 80, joined for two reasons: 'Firstly, to support the Ukrainian Rotary Impact Club of Rutland and raise funds for a very worthwhile cause, but also to push myself out of my comfort zone and prove that age doesn't matter – keep doing while you can.  

'There was definitely an adrenaline rush. It felt slightly scary but safe at the same time, and I had a real sense of satisfaction in achieving it.' 

It is not too late to donate to the Wheelchairs for Ukraine challenge, via their GoFundMe page.

The club also have an upcoming Charity Festival in Peterborough to mark the Independence Day of Ukraine. This will include live music, Ukrainian Dancing, handmade crafts, Ukrainian food and barbecue and activities for children.  

Visit the Ukrainian Rotary Impact Club of Rutland's Facebook Page for details of their upcoming events.