Stan takes the plunge for charity

FEARLESS STAN Bowes had no hesitation tackling a breath-taking 200ft charity abseil down the outside of one of the world’s most daunting rollercoasters.

But after landing safety, 70-year-old Stan, who writes the Saddleworth Independent’s ‘Strange but True’ column, admitted he would never ride The Big One at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

“Coming down by ropes was fine,” he said. “But there is no way I’d consider taking a trip on the ride itself – it’s far too terrifying.”

The Big One was the tallest and steepest rollercoaster in the world when opened in 1994, and is still in the top category today.

Plucky Stan, from Diggle, took on the feat in aid of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, which works with soldiers and their families who are suffering the consequences of catastrophic injuries in action.

Stan, who is Assistant Governor in Rotary District 1280, revealed he was inspired to take the plunge after a presentation given by the charity at a Rotary Conference last year.

He said: “In a moment of weakness I volunteered to abseil from the top of ‘The Big One’ to raise funds for the charity.

“I was also lucky enough to meet Corporal Andy Reid, who lost two legs and his right arm when blown up by a Taliban improvised explosive device in Helmand Province – a remarkable man.”

“It was great fun, with lovely weather to suit. My daughter visited with my grandchild from France – just so they could see how crazy I am,” he quipped.

Stan has already raised more than £500 for ABF but is keen to raise more.

He added: “I offer my thanks on behalf of the many people who will benefit from the work done by ABF. I was humbled because one of the abseilers was nearly ninety years old.”

Anyone wishing to support Stan can donate online: www.justgiving.com/stan-bowes