102-year-old war veteran breaks Guinness World Record and becomes the oldest person to abseil!

At 102 years old, Colin has secured another worthy title - Guinness World Record holder for the oldest person to abseil.

An extraordinary fundraising journey

On 14 September, Colin fearlessly abseiled from the highest elevated helipad in Europe – a whopping 17 storeys (or 280ft!) down the Royal London Hospital. Colin fundraised for the RCN Foundation and incredibly raised over £16,000! 

When asked if he was feeling apprehensive about the abseil, Colin humorously responded: "I'm too thick to be apprehensive - abseiling is just money for old rope, though I hope it's strong rope!"

The abseil was only one part of Colin’s fundraising campaign – in late August, he completed a sponsored walk, visiting places significant to his wartime role during World War Two and was notably seen off by Randolph Churchill, the great-grandson of Sir Winston Churchill. 

Support Colin's courageous efforts

All donations, no matter how big or small, will make a difference to the nursing and midwifery community. As little as £1.02p will support nurses like Lily, who are facing hardship despite being in work. 

On why he chose to fundraise for the RCN Foundation, Colin said: "At 102, I've witnessed the invaluable dedication of nurses throughout my life. Their care and compassion have touched my heart, which is why I have committed to supporting the work of the RCN Foundation. Help me reach my fundraising goals and donate what you can."

In addition to fundraising for the RCN Foundation, Colin is also raised money for the RAF Benevolent Fund and London’s Air Ambulance.

Read more about Colin and his chosen charities here.

Colin only retired in 2019 at age 98, so we can’t image he’ll be slowing down anytime soon. We wonder what world record he’s ready to take on next?!