Thrill seekers donate cheque after Lagan Zipline Challenge

Thrill seekers donate cheque after Lagan Zipline Challenge

12 September 2018

TWO local thrill seekers have zipped across the Lagan to raise over £2,000 for charity.

Nicola Meese (30), from Ballynahinch, and  her friend Margaret Kerr (73), from Moneyreagh, bravely took on the Lagan Weir Zipline Challenge to raise the funds for Dementia NI.

Participants take flight from a 30-metre high platform and soar 200 meters across the River Lagan, reaching speeds of 25mph.

Speaking about the recent adventure, Nicola who is also a fundraising volunteer for the local Dementia NI Down and Lisburn Fundraising group, said: “It was a great challenge. When I got up there to do it the guy who was getting me ready calmed me down and eased my nerves because I was shaking.

“Everyone said I’d enjoy it once I actually did it, but I was just glad to get it over and be back on the ground. The zipline itself only takes a minute and the views over Belfast city are stunning.  

“There was a real buzz afterwards, just from raising money and helping out a great cause. I am overwhelmed with all the support I received from family and friends who sponsored me. I never in my wildest dreams thought together we would raise £2,362.00.”

Fionnuala Savage, Income Generation Manager for Dementia NI, congratulated the pair on their fundraising efforts.

“I’d like to extend my thanks to Nicola and Margaret for taking on this big challenge,” she said.

“Today it is estimated that there are currently 20,000 people living with dementia in Northern Ireland, of whom approximately 13,000 have a confirmed diagnosis. It is thought that as many as 1,000 of these people are under the age of 65 years.  

“Dementia NI is a new charity set up by people living with dementia, and the money raised through the Zipline Challenge will enable people with a diagnosis of dementia to have their voices heard and remain active within their community. 

“By supporting Dementia NI Nicola and Margaret have played their part in helping people with dementia to live well with the right support.”

To find out more about how Dementia NI can help with a diagnosis, visit www.dementiani.org or telephone 028 9068 6768.