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Bishop of Guildford Joins Thrill-Seekers in Daring Descent for Cathedral Fundraiser

18th June 2025

An unforgettable day of courage and community spirit took place on Saturday 14 June, as Guildford Cathedral’s Daring Descent fundraising challenge saw 27 brave participants, including The Right Reverend Andrew Watson, Bishop of Guildford, abseil 160 feet down the Cathedral tower in support of the Cathedral’s vital work.

The event kicked off with Bishop Andrew’s inspiring leap of faith, raising funds not only for Guildford Cathedral but also for the Bishop of Guildford’s Communities Fund, which supports grassroots projects helping the most vulnerable across the Diocese.

Throughout the day, participants, including Cathedral staff, Diocesan Staff, Bell ringers, congregation members and members of the local community climbed 249 steps up the spiral staircase to take in the stunning views from the top before abseiling down with the expert guidance of Hatt Adventures.

“It was a day full of joy, community spirit, and no small amount of bravery,” said Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part and supported this event. Thanks to their efforts, we’ve already raised £10,278, and we’re hopeful we can reach our £15,000 target.”

Rt Revd Andrew Watson Bishop of Guildford said:

“I can’t pretend that abseiling from the Cathedral tower was anything other than terrifying, but it was wonderful to be cheered on by such a great bunch of people (including my fellow abseilers) and it was encouraging to raise money for two such worthy causes. The experience comes into the category of something I’m really glad I’ve done.”

Ollie Turner, one of the Cathedral Lay Clerks said:

“What a fantastic experience here at the Cathedral! It was amazing to be able to look out from the top of the tower across the Surrey hills landscape. The team at the top of the tower were wonderful and dealt with my nervous small talk very well (!) and the way down was as thrilling as it was stunning. I’m so grateful for everyone who supporting on the day and in donations for helping to preserve such an amazing space and a brilliant team!”

The funds raised will help cover the £3,500 a day it costs to keep the Cathedral open, supporting worship, outreach, education, and cultural programmes. Donations are still welcome, and every pound brings the Cathedral closer to ensuring its doors remain open to all.

Alongside the excitement of the abseil, the Cathedral also hosted a wedding for two of our community, a reminder of the many roles this special place plays in people’s lives.

A huge thank you to everyone who made the day possible.

Still want to donate? Help us hit our £15,000 goal here:
👇 https://guildfordcathedral.enthuse.com/cf/daring-descent

For more information about Guildford Cathedral’s events and activities, visit:
🌐 www.guildford-cathedral.org

For more information, please contact Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral on 01483 547884 Headofdevelopment@guildford-cathedral.org

For more information about our exhibitions, tours, and events, visit www.guildford-cathedral.org.