This summer, SOS Africa will partner with Shepton Mallet Prison and opens its gates not to confine, but to liberate, as it hosts a unique charity abseil experience on 15th of June 2024. Set against the backdrop of the closed prison’s 400-year history, the event offers participants the opportunity to abseil from the roof of the prison’s workshop building, all in the spirit of raising funds for the SOS Africa children’s charity.
The event, which coincides with Father’s Day weekend, promises to be an unforgettable experience for families and individuals alike. Participants will have the rare chance to explore the infamous prison workshop, venture across its walkways, and take in the expansive views from the rooftop before making their descent. It’s an ideal challenge for both seasoned abseilers and first timers, offering a unique way to confront fears and bond with loved ones.
Joel Campbell, CEO of Shepton Mallet Prison, expresses his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are honoured to collaborate with SOS Africa for this exhilarating event. Transforming a space historically associated with limitation into one of liberation and opportunity symbolises our commitment to positive community engagement and support for charitable causes.”
SOS Africa’s history of hosting engaging and impactful events, including the memorable ‘Nominate an Inmate’ initiative which raised over £60,000, has paved the way for this latest adventure. The charity’s past abseil challenges at iconic venues such Glastonbury Festival Pyramid Stage, Wells Cathedral and King Alfred’s Tower have captivated participants across the Southwest, making this event at Shepton Mallet Prison highly anticipated.
Matt Crowcombe, Founder of SOS Africa, shares his excitement: “Returning to Shepton Mallet Prison for this special event is a thrill. Working alongside the prison team, we’re set to offer an experience that not only challenges participants but also deeply connects them with the local heritage, all while supporting a noble cause.”
To join this much-anticipated event, participants are required to secure their spot with a £20 deposit to cover Aardvark Endeavours Abseil Instructors fees and raise £50. With options for both adults and children, it’s a fantastic way for everyone to contribute to a great cause, experience the thrill of abseiling, and engage with the rich history of Shepton Mallet Prison.
To enter as an individual or team, please contact Event Organiser Matt Crowcombe by email (matt@sosafrica.com) with the following details:
- Full name and email address of individual/team leader
- Preferred abseil time / date (9am – 5pm, 15th June 2024)
- Transfer a £20 deposit per abseiler to: SOS Africa, 40-47-28, 32032554
Matt will then confirm your abseil date/time, set up your online fundraising page and add it to our Event Fundraising Page where you will be able to track the event fundraising total. No previous abseil experience is required, fancy-dress is optional and all abseilers must be age 9 or over (under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian). The team from Shepton Mallet Prison are also offering discounted tours for abseilers, so why not make a day of it.
Support a cause, embrace history, and take the leap with us this June at Shepton Mallet Prison
