​Easington septuagenarian takes on zip wire for the Stroke Association

Patricia Baxter, 79, from Easington has raised over £940 for the Stroke Association after taking on the charity’s Zip the Tyne in her 80th year.

Patricia was inspired to zip wire from the roof of the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art to the opposite side of the River Tyne earlier this month, after several of her friends had been affected by stroke.

Patricia said: “I’ve never done anything like this before but a zip wire has always been on my bucket list! When I heard about the Stroke Association’s Zip the Tyne fundraiser, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to raise money to help people affected by stroke, while doing something I’ve always wanted to do - and in my 80th year too! I’m scared of heights but I really enjoyed it; it really pushed me out of my comfort zone. My family and friends have been more than generous and I’m thrilled with my final total raised. Although I have to admit, some of my family offered to pay me not to do it instead!”

Kelly Knighting-Wykes, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 1.2 million people across the UK living with the devastating impact of stroke it is vital that we have people to raise funds and help us conquer stroke. Patricia is proof that you’re never too old to be a daredevil fundraiser. She is a true superstar and a real inspiration, and we’re delighted she chose to zip across the River Tyne. The money raised through the event will help to fund vital research, support people affected and prevent stroke.”

For more information about the Stroke Association, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.