THE mayor of Launceston is rounding off her term on a high as she takes on an adrenaline-fuelled challenge in the name of charity.

For the last two terms, Cllr Helen Bailey has been leading Launceston Town Council as the town’s mayor. However, on May 13, her term comes to an end, and to mark the occasion, she hopes to raise money for charity by abseiling down Meldon Viaduct on Saturday, May 3.

The event will be raising money for her two chosen charities for 2024/25, Man Down Launceston and Launceston Youth Music Theatre (LYMT).

Cllr Bailey said: “Man Down is dedicated to supporting men with mental health challenges, this group is saving lives. LYMT encourages and builds confidence through performance in young people aged between 8 and 18, three incredible shows under their belt so far, such talent we have hidden in our towns young people. With 90 students currently in this project which celebrates it’s second birthday this week.”

Commenting on why she wanted to take on this challenge, Cllr Bailey has said she hopes to shine a light on a number of important organisations within the town.

She added: “I wanted to promote the two organisations by doing something different to fundraise, this would have happened last year but due to an ankle injury it was not possible till now. Also choosing the Viaduct is an opportunity to promote the huge project Connect Launceston led by Cllr Dave Gordon to bring the railway back to Launceston, with a line from Okehampton”

Donations can be made to the challenge via the GoFundMe page, www.gofundme.com/f/launceston-mayors-charities-2024-2025. The Byre in Launceston Town Square is also collecting donations. Mayor Cllr Bailey has set herself a large target to raise and every penny donated will benefit those directly in both organisations.