Wing it this Summer! Take to the skies with a ‘COVID safe’ Wing Walk challenge

Adventurous adrenalin junkies can take to the skies and do a spot of wing walking this summer to raise funds for local hospice care during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Havens Hospices, which includes Fair Havens, Little Havens and The J’s, are looking for people to take on a ‘Covid safe’ Wing Walk challenge at Damyns Hall Aerodrome near Upminster on Saturday 18th July 2020.

This challenge is perfect for those who are looking for an alternative exciting outdoor challenge whilst stuck at home during the pandemic.

Participants will stand on the wing of a Skymax Stearman biplane whilst travelling up to speeds of 100 MPH, 900 ft in the air. They will also be able to have up to five guests there with them on the day to cheer them on.

The Skymax team who provide the Wing Walk experience at the Damyns Hall Areodrome have introduced a number of revised safety measures to ensure a safe experience for their wing walkers including: Touch points will be cleaned regularly between flights, hand washing facilities and sanitiser will be readily available, staff will be equipped with PPE and single use goggles will be provided to each wing walker.

By taking part in the challenge participants will be helping to raise money for Havens Hospices so they can continue ‘Making every day count’ for the children and adults with complex or incurable conditions and their families, across Essex.

Emma Hamilton, Challenge Fundraiser at Havens Hospices says, “We are thrilled to be going ahead with our extremely popular Wing Walk challenge- the challenge is a must for adrenaline junkies who are looking for a safe challenge that is not confined to their homes during these current times.

“Havens Hospices income has taken a major hit this year with most of our public fundraising events cancelled or postponed so we are thrilled that we are able to go ahead safely with the Wing Walk challenge this summer so we can continue to raise vital funds for the hospice.”

Please note that to take part in the Wing Walk, participants must be no heavier than 12 stone 2 pounds (77kg) and between 18-70 years of age. Those between the ages of 65-70 would need to provide a GP’s declaration of good health. Wing walkers must be able to climb onto the aircraft unaided in line with Skymax’s new hygiene measures and social distancing rules.

Any Wing Walkers who would like to participate are asked for a £100 registration fee and a minimum fundraising pledge of £600, to help the charity be there for everyone who needs them for as long as they’re needed. Please note the participant’s total fundraising amount is not expected to be passed on to the charity until two months after the event date which gives participants plenty of time to raise funds.

For more information or to book your place, click here or email Challenges Fundraiser Emma Hamilton, ehamilton@havenshospices.org.uk or call 01702 220 308.

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A Skymax Stearman biplane during a Wing Walking challenge