I’m Andy Walton and I'm doing something slightly mad (and completely exhilarating!) — I’ll be abseiling down the tower of Dorchester Abbey… all 30,000 millimetres of it! 😄

That’s right — a full 30 metres (98 feet) of historic stonework between me and the ground!

Why? Because it’s all in support of a fantastic cause — and I need your help to make the nerves worthwhile and my crazy Australian cousin Paul kindly signed me up.....

If you’ve ever:

- Enjoyed the Abbey’s beautiful setting

- Attended a concert, wedding, or community event there

- Or simply fancy seeing me suspended mid-air questioning my life choices…

…then this is your chance to sponsor me!

Every donation, large or small, will:

- Support the ongoing work and upkeep of this wonderful historic building

- Keep community events thriving

- Support "Be Free Young Carers" charity

- Give me the motivation not to cling halfway down

Please dig deep and sponsor my descent from 30,000mm of bravery!

Thank you — I promise to wave on the way down 👋

Dorchester Festival is raising money for Be Free Young Carers and Dorchester Abbey in 2026

Be Free Young Carers is a proudly independent Oxfordshire charity leading the way in championing young carers. They create real, lasting change for children and teenagers aged 8 – 17 who care for loved ones. Their support helps them rediscover their childhood, build confidence, and thrive.

Everything they do starts with people.

They build strong, personal relationships with their young carers, their families, schools, and local communities as well as with their team, volunteers, and partners. Many of them bring lived experience, and they work in a culture that welcomes everyone to show up as their full selves.