Veteran's 'Big One' abseil

A former soldier who was badly injured in Afghanistan will join a group of veterans planning to abseil down the UK's tallest roller coaster.

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Injured solider begins 'Big One' abseil

Andy Reid abseils down the Big One in Blackpool Credit: Dave Brown, ITV Granada

A triple-amputee soldier from St Helens has started his abseil down the Big One rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

The dizzying drop down the Big One Credit: Dave Brown, ITV Granada
Andy Reid on his descent Credit: Dave Brown, ITV Granada

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Triple amputee plans to abseil down the Big One

The Big One Blackpool Pleasure Beach Credit: PA

A group of veterans and serving soldiers are planning to abseil down The Big One in Blackpool - the first time this has ever been done before.

Andy Reid, a triple amputee who lost both his legs and an arm in Afghanistan is among the group of 40 people taking on the 235ft challenge.

The Soldier’s Charity has done a number of charity abseils from national icons over recent years but this is the first time they have tackled a roller coaster, and they have chosen the UK’s tallest at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach Managing Director, Amanda Thompson OBE, said: “The Big One is such an iconic ride and we are delighted to support The Soldier’s Charity and their fundraising abseil.

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