Over 500 tackle The Gherkin Challenge to raise vital funds for the NSPCC
The weekend of the 22-23 June saw over 500 NSPCC supporters tackle The Gherkin Challenge, racing up 38 floors to the top of one of London’s most iconic buildings to raise vital funds for the charity.
On the Sunday, participants or ‘Gherkineers’ competing as individuals or in teams of four for the fastest time up the well-known City building. And on Saturday families were out in force enjoying the Everest Basecamp themed festival at the bottom of the Gherkin and a more leisurely climb to the top, where they enjoyed stunning panoramic views.
The fastest time to the top was an impressive 4 minutes 18 seconds – a new record for the event – set by elite stair runner, Matthias Jahn of Germany.
Less than a month into his new role, NSPCC Chief Executive, Peter Wanless, tackled The Gherkin Challenge with his son. He said: "On behalf of all the vulnerable children and young people we work with, I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who took part in The Gherkin Challenge, getting active to raise money for the NSPCC. Now that I’ve climbed the 38 floors to the top of the Gherkin, the two floors to my office will be nothing! It certainly wasn’t easy, but Wanless Jr and I spurred each other on and were both delighted to reach the top.”
It is hoped that the event will raise £150,000 to help the NSPCC continue to protect vulnerable children through its projects and services including ChildLine – the UK’s free, confidential 24-hour helpline and online service for children and young people.
To find out more about the work of the NSPCC and how you can get involved, visit www.nspcc.org.uk/getinvolved
