Abseil a breeze for 88-year-old Arthur (From Ledbury Reporter)

Abseil a breeze for 88-year-old Arthur

5:10pm Thursday 2nd July 2009

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LEDBURY veteran Arthur Wrench proved age was no object as he took on a daring zipwire and abseil challenge at the age of 88.

Mr Wrench, of Bramley Close, took part in the event at Eastnor Castle on Sunday (June 28) to raise money for the Stroke Association.

The retired financial consultant, who fought in World War Two, has already raised more than £1,500 for the charity by successfully completing the challenge.

He has good reason for supporting that particular cause as his wife Mary has suffered mini-strokes for the last four years and his father and eldest sister died from the condition.

Mr Wrench said completing the challenge was “no problem at all”, and added that the most difficult part was scaling several flights of stairs and two ladders to reach the summit of the castle after living in bungalows for the last 30 years.

“It all went absolutely fine, the weather was incredible and I thoroughly enjoyed it,” he said. “After I finished I was told that I was not only the oldest participant but also the person who had raised the most money.

“I have raised far more than I expected to. The support I have received has been remarkable.”

Stroke Association spokesman Robert Jinks said: “We’re so grateful for the support of Arthur and of all the brave participants and enthusiastic spectators who helped to make the day a highly successful event. It was a glorious day, and we’ve already raised over £7,000 to help those affected by strokes.”

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