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Islanders took part in a KM Charity Challenge abseil down Miller House, Maidstone, to support the Harmony Therapy Trust

The weather was perfect for four volunteers who abseiled 135ft down a building for a cause close to their hearts. Supporters of the Harmony Therapy Trust, the Times Guardian’s Charity of the Year, took part in the KM Group’s challenge on Sunday.

Administrator Julie Murby, therapists Alyson Luff and Maxine Hammond, and former patient and volunteer Maggie Keen made their way down Miller House in Maidstone.

It was all to raise money for the trust, which provides free treatment for people with serious illnesses.

Supporters of the Harmony Therapy Trust took part in an abseil in Maidstone
Supporters of the Harmony Therapy Trust took part in an abseil in Maidstone

They hope to have raised at least £1,500 between them and the proceeds will be split with 70% going to the trust and the rest to support the KM’s Walk to School scheme.

Veteran abseiler Miss Murby, of Magpie Court, Minster, was taking part in the sport for the third time and said she was very proud of everyone who completed the challenge.

The 58-year-old said it was more frightening this time as the scaffolding at the top was slightly different to the last few times she had done it.

“Maggie was very scared but she did it and I’m so proud of her and of everybody,” she said.

“I’m pleased we all did it. It was a lovely day and the weather was kind to us.

“There were so many supporters there – it was an amazing crowd.

“I’d like to thank everyone who came to support us and who has sponsored us.”

The Harmony women weren’t the only ones from Sheppey taking part.

It was sponsored by Island Scaffolding along with Maidstone-based accountants DSH.

Director Lee Herron said: “It was nice to do something for the community and help support different good causes across the county.”

A number of other Islanders also took park – tackling the wall in aid of Mitrofanoff Support which helps people with bladder problems.

Kelly Strudwick, from Minster, had organised it as she has suffers but was unable to abseil herself. Six of her friends and family did.

There are a number of other fundraiser events coming up in support of the Harmony Therapy Trust.

On Saturday, April 5, a First World War-themed quiz will be held at Queenborough Social Club, North Road, Queenborough.

A Second World War D-Day commemoration dinner and dance will be held at the Oasis Academy Isle of Sheppey’s east site in Minster Road, Minster, on Saturday, May 10.

To book tickets or to find out more about any of these events phone the trust on 01795 663050 or pop in to its base at Sheppey Leisure Complex.

There’s still time to sponsor any of the abseilers. Go to www.justgiving.com and search for them.

For more pictures, see this week's Sheerness Times Guardian, out Wednesday.

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