FRIENDS CALL ON BRISTOLIANS TO RISE TO THE CHALLENGE

Two friends from Bristol who took part in an abseil challenge in memory of a friend who tragically died from bowel cancer are urging Bristolians to register now for a similar event taking place in November.

Nicole Zographou and Ellie Gee, both 24 took part in the St Peter's Hospice abseil challenge following a promise they made to their good friend Luke Zammit that they would help raise funds for the charity which looked after him before he passed away aged only 23.

The popular event, which is taking place on Sunday 18 November, will see participants drop 185ft down the side of the Premier Inn building in the city centre and with only 80 places available, anyone who wants to take part needs to register now.

Nicole said: "We knew Luke through some mutual friends and after he died wanted to do something not only in his memory but which would raise funds for the hospice. It was also quite a challenge for us to drop off the side of the building but nothing in comparison to what Luke and his family went through, so it was well worth doing.

"Luke's mum said that the hospice did some amazing work, making his final days as comfortable as possible. It's when you hear about people's first hand experience that you realise how important the hospice is."

Ellie added: "I knew Luke for about 10 years and first met him when he was at Bristol Cathedral School. He was always organising things for people to do so for me and Nicole to take part in the abseil was a great way to not only channel our grief in a positive way but to remember Luke in a way he would have wanted.

"What struck a chord with me was how comfortable Luke said he felt about going to the hospice and the care he received while he was there."

Louisa James who is organising the event added: "It's really exciting to be able to offer again such a fun activity while raising vital funds for the hospice and want as many people to enrol.

"The number of participants is limited to 80 people so anyone who wants to conquer their fear of heights, love to test themselves or just want to raise money for a worthy cause should register now to secure a place.

"The money raised is vital for the community so please consider signing up to help. If Abseiling is not your thing, you could sponsor someone taking part or take a look at our website for more fundraising ideas."

Last year the hospice cared for 2,675 patients and supported over 6,000 family members including children.

All care is provided free of charge, but with the NHS contributing just under a quarter of the £6.5 million needed to run the hospice a year, support from the public is essential.

To register please contact Louisa on 0117 915 3344 or email louisa.james@stpetershospice.org or visit www.stpetershospice.org.uk