Leap of faith as daredevils abseil down city cathedral

Spectators watched as 24 people abseiled down the building to raise money for Project 2015, which aims to renew the east end of the cathedral.

Some fundraisers wore fancy dress costumes, such as a rabbit outfit, while others descended at a slow pace.

Terry Rigg, the cathedral’s community fundraiser, said they raised more than £5,000.

He said: “It was fantastic and a lot of people stood and watched in the precinct to see them coming down.

“We have done the abseil in the past and everyone always says they really enjoyed doing it. They get a view of the city you cannot see anywhere else.

“Any money raised is hugely beneficial so we are grateful so many people took part.”

The £2.5m Project 2015 was launched after last year’s £3m refurbishment of the nave.

Cathedral chiefs secured a £1.8m grant towards the cost of the project and they have been holding fundraisers to raise a further £700,000.

Work started on the cathedral in June, which includes new lighting, underfloor heating and a renewed St Mark’s Chapel. It is expected to be completed by next Easter.

The abseil was organised by Wakefield’s 299 Parachute Squadron Royal Engineers.

The Ridings Shopping Centre marketing manager Sara Hassan and staff from Marks & Spencers took part.

For more information log onto www.wakefieldcathedral.org.uk.