Anne proves you're never too old for a new challenge

Staff from Riverdale Primary School collectively raised £900 for children and adults with disabilities

72 year old Lisburn woman, Anne McBratney proved you're never too old for a challenge when she joined seven staff members from Riverdale Primary School to take part in an abseil down the side of the Premier Inn hotel in Belfast's Alfred Street to raise funds for The Cedar Foundation.

Anne and the team from Riverdale joined thirty-five other brave volunteers from all over Northern Ireland and in total the event raised over £6,000 to help Cedar's work with children and adults with disabilities.

Having completed her abseil Anne said; "I thought I would be nervous going over the edge but it was no problem. I really enjoyed it and the staff put me at ease. I'm happy I was able to share the experience with my family. Unbelievable!"

Principal of Riverdale Primary School, Trevor Carruthers said: "Riverdale have been a long
term supporter of The Cedar Foundation and our group had a fantastic time today taking on the abseil challenge. Thanks to everyone who helped us to raise £900 in sponsorship for such a worthy cause."

This was the first ever charity abseil at the Premier Inn and many of the participants took part in fancy dress. Passers-by were confused to see a bumble bee and Buzz Lightyear walking to the event followed by an elf, Snow White, and even a jellyfish.

The Cedar Foundation works in partnership with disabled people across Northern Ireland providing quality support, care, accommodation and training services to enable disabled adults and children to participate in all aspects of community life. To find out more telephone 028 9066 6188 or log on to www.cedar-foundation.org.


Anne McBratney from Lisburn takes the plunge for Cedar Foundation having raised over £300	Principal of Riverdale Primary School, Trevor Carruthers begins his descent in aid of the Cedar Foundation

Ulster Star
15/07/2011