A DYNAMIC duo managed to mount the stairs of one of the tallest buildings in the capital all in the name of charity.
On Sunday, Sean Flanagan, 34, and Steve Bowen, 40, both from Swindon, took part in the NSPCC’s Step Change challenge, where they climbed up the 1,037 steps to the 38th floor of the 591ft tall ‘Gherkin’, to raise vital funds for ChildLine in its 25th anniversary year.
Affectionately dubbed the ‘Gherkineers’, which included GMTV presenter Anna Williamson, the volunteers competed as individuals or in teams of four for the fastest time up the well-known City building.
This year saw the introduction of a dedicated family slot, allowing children over the age of eight to race alongside their parents, making it easier than ever to get involved.
Sean, who completed the challenge in nine minutes and ten seconds, said: “I entered along with my brother and we got to the top in a better time than I had hoped. “I wanted to do something to support ChildLine’s great work and this sounded like something a bit different. “I was quite nervous at the start as to whether I could complete the challenge at all so the highlight for me was reaching the top.”
Steve completed the challenge to climb the building situated at 30 St Mary Axe, London, in nine minutes and 33 seconds.
He said: “I entered because ChildLine is such a good cause but also Step Change is a great personal challenge.
“At the start it was really daunting, and although it was the first time that I have done the event, I was really pleased with my time. I hope to have raised around £530.”
This is the third year that Step Change has been staged, and it is hoped that the event will raise £200,000 for ChildLine.
Director of ChildLine services Peter Liver said: “It was fantastic to see our supporters out in force taking part in the Step Change Gherkin challenge.
“I'd like to thank everyone who took part, raising money for ChildLine in its 25th anniversary year, and helping us to provide a listening ear for vulnerable children and young people who may feel they have nowhere else to turn.”
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