Humanimal Trust Launches Spinnaker Tower Abseil Challenge

Participants will descend the UK’s tallest abseil structure outside London while raising vital funds for One Medicine research. Humanimal Trust is the only organisation in the UK dedicated solely to advancing One Medicine– the principle that medical progress should benefit humans and animals equally, without causing harm to either.

Among those taking part is Laura Stone, who runs Amity Pet Care - a dog day care and walking business in Surrey - with her partner Luke, as well as Pino’s Pals Premium Cat Services.

Laura said: “I’ve always been a huge animal lover and have built my career around caring for dogs and cats. When I heard about the Spinnaker Tower abseil, the thrill-seeker in me immediately said yes - even if the sensible part of me took a moment to catch up.

“One Medicine means so much to me because I see every day how closely connected human and animal health really is. Most of us have watched either a human or animal loved one face serious illness, and the idea that vets and doctors can work more closely together - improving treatment while reducing the need for animal testing - feels like a real win-win.”

The one-day event is open to individuals and teams of friends, family members or work colleagues, with no previous abseiling experience required. Those taking part will be rewarded with spectacular views across Portsmouth Harbour and the Solent, an unforgettable adrenaline-fuelled experience, and the knowledge that every pound raised is helping to improve health outcomes across species.

Laura said: “I’m sure I’ll be nervous when I’m standing 100 metres up, but knowing I’m raising funds to help improve lives across species will make that step over the edge worthwhile. I’ve already been overwhelmed by the generosity of friends, family and clients, and I’m hoping people might consider skipping a takeaway coffee or meal and donating the cost instead - every pound truly makes a difference.”

The challenge follows previous supporter Annie Leete from Hampshire, who abseiled the tower in 2018 in aid of Humanimal Trust, inspired by her golden retriever Brinkley’s courageous battle with cancer.

Annie said: "Having watched the courage and resilience with which Brinkley battled the multiple mast cell tumours - and having seen very close friends fall ill at a time when they should be enjoying life to the fullest - I felt it was time to step outside my comfort zone and give something back.

“Abseiling the Spinnaker Tower was terrifying and exhilarating in equal measure. The views were breathtaking and reaching the ground gave me a huge sense of personal achievement. I’m not particularly sporty, so it was empowering to take on something so far outside my comfort zone - and even more meaningful knowing I was raising funds for such a worthwhile cause. I’d encourage everyone to give it a go.”

Joe Bailey, CEO of Humanimal Trust, who will be taking on the challenge alongside Trustees of the charity, said: “Stories like Laura’s and Annie’s show how personal experiences can be transformed into meaningful action. This challenge is about more than conquering fears or ticking something off a bucket list. Every person who abseils the Spinnaker Tower is helping us drive forward One Medicine research that can transform lives, human and animal alike. We’re thrilled to be bringing supporters together for such an iconic event.”

All participants will receive a Humanimal Trust t-shirt, a personalised fundraising page, and dedicated fundraising support. Places are limited and early registration is encouraged.

For further information and to sign up, visit www.humanimaltrust.org.uk