Lurgan Abseil: Daredevils And Scaredy Cats Alike Wanted

Plucky daredevils and "scaredy cats" alike are being challenged to abseil down Lurgan's Marlborough House in September to raise funds for charity.

Lurgan woman, Geraldine Loughran is appealing to people to pluck up the courage and sign up to the challenge to help raise funds for NI Cancer Fund for Children (NICFC).

NICFC has been a charity close to Geraldine's heart since her little girl Aislinn was diagnosed with having a brain tumour six years ago when she was only three-and-a-half years old.

"NICFC has improved Aislinn's life and that of her siblings significantly. They have all enjoyed stays down at Narnia, the beautiful log cabin in Newcastle where they were able to meet children in similar situations. Aislinn has also benefitted from the support of a Youth Programme worker and one-to-one sessions which has helped her to understand her condition," Geraldine said.

Geraldine said she is forever grateful to NICFC and has organised the abseil so the Loughran family can "give something back".

"I just want other mothers and families to experience the privileges and help we did. Obviously we want to raise as much money for NICFC as possible so they can continue to provide these services, but if we only raise £1000 then that little amount will still make such a difference. Cancer is an awful illness and it's important to raise awareness for charities like NICFC so people know there is help available," she said.

Geraldine, who has an intense fear of heights, is practising what she preaches - she has signed up to do the abseil herself.

"My heart will be in my mouth," she admits. "But I will still do it; I will put aside my fears for the sake of this fantastic charity."

The abseil will take place on September 29. Anyone who is interested should contact Briege Price on 028 90805599 for more information.

Geraldine has also organised a street collection for NICFC in Lurgan town centre on August 25 and is urging people to dig deep and donate generously.