Are you brave enough to take on the Obel Abseil?

IF you like a good challenge - and are not afraid of heights - now is the time to join forces with Banbridge man, Dean Lovell, and prepare to scale Ireland’s tallest building in aid of the Habitat charity.

Dean is challenging members of the local community to help Habitat nail poverty housing by taking on the ‘Obel Abseil’ on March 23 and 24.

And, if it seems like he has done it all before, that’s because he has. Last year Dean tackled the 289-foot building, describing it as a “thrilling experience”.

“It’s hard to describe the experience, but I kept thinking of the families who would benefit and the challenges they have to face every day and I knew I could do it,” he said. “The ‘Obel Abseil Challenge’ offers a “unique, breath-taking” perspective on the world, particularly because of the spectacular views across Belfast.”

Habitat has limited places available and with some participants already signed up, anyone interested is advised to secure their place soon.

A £40 non-refundable registration fee is required and a commitment to raise a minimum sponsorship of £100. Registration forms can be downloaded at www.habitatni.co.uk or by calling Karen on 028 92 635 639.

Funds raised from the event will help support Habitat’s work both locally and around the world, helping families and communities build their own way out of poverty.

“Around 600,000 homes have already been built worldwide, benefiting more than three million people by giving them a safe and decent place to call ‘home’,” added Dean. “There are 1.6 billion people worldwide still living in substandard housing, facing unclean water, harsh weather conditions and exposure to life-threatening disease on a daily basis, so every penny raised will make a life changing impact.”

Anyone interested in finding out more should contact Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland, Riverside Centre, Lisburn, BT27 5EA, telephone

028 92 635647 or email www.habitatni.co.uk