Back in June, 82-year-old grandmother, Sarah Hill bravely took on the challenge of wing walking in aid of Raystede. Her commitment to fundraising and taking on the adrenaline challenge was recognised as she went on to be nominated for a local community award!
Before taking to the skies, she said she could opt for "a smooth ride or for the pilot to give it everything he's got"
"I thought I am never going to do this again so went for the full thing” says Sarah. "Everybody thought I was absolutely mad, but it was terrific and not half as scary as I thought it would be. Anyone thinking of doing something like this should just go for it."
After signing up for the wing walk, Sarah immersed herself in the cause. Her fundraising efforts were widespread, she promoted her campaign through her church, in the Uckfield community, local shops, and on local radio, even making it onto the BBC News website. She also used the challenge to raise awareness for an animal charity she founded in the Cayman Islands where she had previously lived, expanding the reach of her impact internationally!
In recognition of Sarah’s extraordinary commitment, creativity, and kindness, she was nominated for the Charity Fundraiser of the Year Award at the Ashdown FM Community Awards 2025 and was shortlisted to be part of the top three finalists.
While sadly she didn’t win the award on the night, for her spirit, generosity, and unwavering dedication, Sarah was a truly deserving nominee and she’s a real animal hero!
Has Sarah’s story inspired you to take on an adrenaline fuelled challenge of your own? If so, why not sign up for our 2026 wing walk!
For this challenge, you will get an exhilarating 10 minutes in the sky strapped safely to the wing of a plane. With breath-taking top speeds of 130mph and stunning views, nothing will bring you closer to the clouds than a wing walk.
Not for the faint of heart, this challenge is thrilling and extraordinary, but most importantly your support will help us to be there when the animals need us most.
