Mayor and MP take on zip-wire challenge

TAKING charity to extreme heights: the zip line the Mayor will ride

THE Mayor of Oldham will join 80 fellow daredevils - including Failsworth MP Angela Rayner - when he takes on the fastest zip line in the world for charity.

Councillor Ateeque Ur-Rehman will ditch his mayoral chain for a wire as he takes flight on Velocity, the longest zip line in Europe, and said to be the fastest in the world.

The 500ft-high line at Penrhyn Quarry, Bethesda, North Wales, is described as “the nearest thing to flying” and stretches over a mile, reaching speeds of up to 100mph.

And the fearless mayor won’t be going alone: he will be joined by MP Mrs Rayner, Oldham Council chief executive Carolyn Wilkins and former Oldham Council leader John Battye.

The thrill-seeking group will travel on May 15 and are taking on the challenge to raise money for the Mayor’s Appeal. A collective target of £15,000 has been set and every penny raised will be split equally among the mayor’s five chosen charities — the ACE Centre, Action Oldham, Anthony Nolan, The Christie and Doctor Kershaw’s Hospice.

Councillor Ur-Rehman said: “Originally, I was a little bit worried but after seeing the incredible response we have had and the amount of people willing to join me, I’m filled with hope and comfort.

“I’m really pleased that so many people will be joining me and now I’m more excited than nervous.”

Popular Oldham businessman Sir Norman Stoller is doing his bit to help: he has paid £1,500 to cover costs, including travel.

Guests at the Mayor’s Ball will be asked to sponsor the group - and Sir Norman has offered to match the total raised on the night.

There are still places for people to take part. The price is £48, which includes the return coach.

Contact johnbattye53@yahoo.co.uk for further details.