Glasgow couple to abseil 30m down Kelpies for SSAFA

Glasgow Times

15-06-2025

Carol and Charles Diaper, from St George's Cross in Glasgow, will climb the inside of one of the Kelpies before abseiling down the 30-metre-high sculpture on June 27, as part of the SSAFA Kelpie Experience.
The event raises funds for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.
It offers participants a guided aerial climb up the world's largest equine sculptures, with the option to descend via a free-hanging abseil or "Quick Flight" rope drop.
Carol and Charles will climb and abseil the Kelpies to raise money for charity (Image: Supplied)
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Carol, a professional trumpeter, said: "We both feel passionate about supporting the people who serve in the Armed Forces, both home and abroad.
"SSAFA does such good work with serving personnel, veterans, and their families, so when we saw the Kelpie event, we thought this was the perfect way of challenging ourselves whilst also raising vital funds for the charity."
This challenge marks yet another adventure for the brave couple who are both PADI Rescue Divers.
Carol recently completed her 500th dive in Fiji last year and has raised more than £50,000 for charity through fire walks, freefall parachuting, Everest Base Camp treks, and a 500km cycle ride in China.
The adventurous couple are both PADI rescue divers (Image: Supplied)
The couple's choice to raise funds for the Armed Forces is tied to their personal links to the organisation.
Charles's uncle served as a Group Captain in the RAF and was Commandant of the now-closed Headley Court rehabilitation hospital.
The couple also have a close friend who is an engineer in the Royal Navy.
To support Carol and Charles' fundraising, visit community.ssafa.org.uk/pf/carol-diaper.
The Kelpies Experience takes participants into the horse's mouth via cables, ladders, and suspended platforms.
Designed for families, schools, and children aged ten and above (with under 17s accompanied by an adult), the event places a strong emphasis on safety.
All climbers will be securely attached to a safety cable throughout and supported by professional guides.
The couple are keen to raise funds for SSAFA due to their personal links to the armed forces (Image: Supplied)
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Carol said: "To anyone thinking about doing the challenge, I would say, just be brave.
"It's an amazing feeling to challenge yourself both physically and mentally.
"I know we'll both be a bit nervous from the heights, but that's what all the safety systems and guides are for.
"The best feeling is knowing that all the money raised will go towards people who serve our country."
The Kelpie Experience will take place on June 21 and again during Armed Forces Week on June 27.
Individual registration costs £50, while a family of four (two adults and two children) can take part for £70, with a fundraising target of £250.