St Giles Hospice is encouraging local thrill-seekers to participate in an unforgettable sponsored Wing Walk, taking to the skies to help fund care for local people, and their loved ones, living with a terminal illness.

Hosted in collaboration with the AeroSuperBatics Team, participants can choose from selected weekdays and Saturdays between March – October 2023 to take part in their very own aerial adventure, set within a private airfield in Cirencester, Gloucestershire.

Upon arrival, wing-walkers will be welcomed and briefed by the AeroSuperBatics Team. It’s then time to be securely strapped onto to the top wing of a vintage biplane and soar up into the skies, experiencing around ten minutes of climbs, banks and dives at highs of 800 feet all whilst taking in some outstanding aerial views.

One person who will be hoping for clear skies and calm weather this weekend is Louise Lewis, Events and Project Manager for St Giles Hospice. Louise will be clocking up her own air miles this Saturday 25th March, as she takes part in a sponsored Wing Walk along with her friend, Nerys Marchant.

Between them, Louise and Nerys have already raised over £5,500 in sponsorship for their wing walks. Louise is hoping to raise £3,000 in total, whilst Nerys is hoping to raise £3,500.

Louise, 54, said: “I’ve never done a Wing Walk before, although I did do a skydive in my twenties! I thought it was something that I could physically achieve, as well as something different and exciting that my friends and family would be interested in supporting.

Since working for St Giles, I’ve realised just how amazing the hospice is, and what goes into providong such specialised care within our local communities, behind the scenes. Most people I know have been touched in some way by the services provided by St Giles, and I want to promote the hospice and hopefully inspire others to fundraise themselves by taking part in a Wing Walk challenge.”

Reflecting on her upcoming ascent, Louise added: “I’ve been in denial that it’s happening until now, but the reality is dawning on me with just a couple of days to go! I am definitely a bit of an adrenaline junkie, and I’m hoping the initial nerves will be replaced with exhilaration and pride as I get into the air”.

Chloe Hope, Head of Fundraising at St Giles Hospice, will be watching Louise’s walk on the day and said: “Louise is a very brave and courageous woman, and I am proud that she is part of my team. It takes a lot of willpower to do something like this and we’re all wishing her the very best with her challenge.”

The wing walk is open to all over the age of 18. Registration costs £50, with a minimum sponsorship target of £800. Participants must be able to climb unassisted to the top of the aircraft and must meet certain mandatory health requirements to take part in this event.

Spectators are welcome, and St Giles is encouraging fundraisers to bring their friends, family and colleagues along with them for support and to capture the thrilling spectacle from the ground!

For more information or to sign up to Wing Walk for St Giles visit https://www.stgileshospice.com/wingwalk