Cllr Sudhakar Achwal smashes fundraising target with abseil

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A well-known Winchester councillor has raised more than five times his fundraising target by taking part in a charity abseil.

Sudhakar Achwal, former mayor of Winchester, descended 100 metres down Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower on Sunday, August 16 to support Trinity Winchester, a charity aiding people experiencing homelessness and domestic abuse.

Mr Achwal said: "What a thrilling experience it was. I would happily do it again.

"Standing on the platform, about 100 metres above the ground, was an experience in itself. The views were spectacular.

"On one side, I could see the Isle of Wight; on the other, the South Downs, with Portsmouth and Gosport spread out around us."

Cllr Achwal captured on his descent. (Image: Cllr Sudhakar Achwal)

He originally hoped to raise £500 when launching the JustGiving page in July, but exceeded his target, collecting £2,660 including Gift Aid.

He said: "A huge thank you to everyone who donated, encouraged me, came to watch, or simply wished me well.

"Your generosity will help Trinity continue its vital work supporting people experiencing homelessness and domestic abuse in our community."

Trinity Winchester, one of Mr Achwal’s chosen causes during his mayoral year, supports more than 600 people each year through its direct access drop-in centre.

The charity estimates it costs around £1,857 per day to deliver its full range of support.

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