Superheroes' BT Murrayfield touchdown will prove a lifesaver
BT Murrayfield has welcomed its fair share of rugby heroes over the years. But superheroes of a very different kind will be aiming to touchdown at Edinburgh's famous international arena next month.
Dozens of fundraising daredevils are set to abseil 135 feet from the towering stands at the home of Scottish Rugby to raise funds for Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA).
SCAA's "Superheroes Abseil" will take place at the stadium on March 26. Registration costs £20 and participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £150 in sponsorship.
This week, former international rugby players Craig Joiner and Duncan Hodge, who have 51 Scotland caps between them, voiced their support for the event and the charity that has proved a lifesaver all across Scotland.
"It's rare to get the opportunity to abseil from the stands on to the pitch at BT Murrayfield," said Duncan. "So not only are these fundraisers supporting a great cause, they're among a very select group of people to add this achievement to their life story."
Craig acknowledged the many missions SCAA has flown to assist injured sportspeople - several injured while playing rugby.
"SCAA is Scotland's only charity-funded helicopter air ambulance," he said, "and without the support of people such as these abseilers we wouldn't have this vital resource.
"None of us knows when we might need the service and everyone who joins in this fun event at BT Murrayfield should be very proud of their efforts."
SCAA Regional Fundraising Manager Carol Anne McMahon encouraged everyone who wanted to abseil from the iconic stadium in support of the air ambulance to sign up and help save lives.
"SCAA's own heroes are on call every day of the year to fly expert paramedic care to the most sick and injured in our communities and airlift them to advanced hospital care," she said.
"Every 'superhero' who takes on the BT Murrayfield abseil will help ensure this amazing charity stays in the air for those most in need across Scotland and our many islands."
The abseil is being set up and supervised by expert adventure company Freespirits Outdoor Company from Grandtully. The Moor of Rannoch Hotel is donating a stay for two people as a prize for the highest fundraiser.
More than 60 abseilers from Phoenix Group have already signed up to tackle the touchdown, marking the latest event for Edinburgh-based colleagues' ongoing fundraising support of SCAA.
"This is a thrilling part of Phoenix Group's support with funds raised being subject to match-funding by the company," said Carol Anne.
Anyone interested in joining in this rare opportunity to abseil from the BT Murrayfield stands should sign up by clicking here.
Friends and family are also welcome to attend and cheer the "superheroes" on from the sidelines.