Boy, 12, becomes youngest to abseil 418ft tower

Jacob, 12, was part of a group of abseilers who raised more than £3,800 for The Lewis Foundation

A 12-year-old has become the youngest person to abseil down a 418ft (127m) tower.

Jacob was one of 11 people to abseil down Northampton's National Lift Tower in order to raise funds for The Lewis Foundation, a charity which provides gifts and support packs to adult cancer patients.

The charity said his efforts shone a light on how the youngest members of the community could have an impact.

"I was a bit nervous at the top, but once I started going down, I loved it," Jacob said.

"I wanted to do it because The Lewis Foundation helps so many people and I wanted to do what I could to help.

"I do feel really proud of myself and I'm already thinking about what I can do next."

While the Grade II listed National Lift Tower is used as a research development facility, it is also the tallest permanent abseil tower in the UK.

Lee and Lorraine Lewis set up The Lewis Foundation in 2016

In April, the charity, which is based in Northampton, celebrated raising £1.2m since it was founded nine years ago.

The foundation provides about 2,000 packs each month to adult cancer patients across hospitals in Northamptonshire and the Midlands.

Commenting on her son's achievement, Jacob's mum Emily said she could not believe how brave he was.

She said: "He was determined to do it to help raise as much money as possible and being able to abseil alongside Jacob was absolutely incredible.

"He showed so much courage and to know he did it to support The Lewis Foundation makes it even more special. I'm so very proud of him."

The abseil group raised more than £3,800 for the charity.

Lorraine Lewis, chief executive officer and co-founder of the charity, said: "We can't thank the entire team enough for their bravery!

"And, to see someone as young as 12 taking on such a daunting challenging is truly inspiring."