Grandad, 94, breaks zip wire record in memory of wife

A 94-year-old great-grandad who went viral on social media for flying through the skies on a zip wire has become a record holder.

David Aris took on one of the fastest zip wire experiences in the world to raise funds for St John's Hospice in Lancaster, which looked after his late wife, June.

He has been told he is the oldest person to do the Zip World experience, based in North Wales, and he has raised more than £7,000.

Mr Aris said it was "one of the best things" he has ever done and could not believe how many people donated after seeing his video on TikTok.

The retired marine engineer, who lives in Kendal, said he set himself a target of £500 but after Zip World posted the video on the social media platform, the donations came "rolling in".

He said: "I can’t describe how much it means to me that all these people who I’ve never met have got in touch with donations and kind words, even from America.

"Many have said my late wife June would be so proud of me; that is lovely to read."

Mr Aris was married to June for 60 years before she passed away from cancer five years ago, at the age of 77.

David Aris with his late wife, June

The pair met at a wedding and Mr Aris said he immediately thought "I'll marry her", adding: "We did all sorts of things together, it was a very happy marriage."

Mr Aris did the ZIP Wire experience, known as Velocity, with his friend Narelle, who he met at a t John's Hospice bereavement group.

Velocity has speeds of up to and over 100mph and is the longest zip line in Europe at 0.9 miles (1.5 km).

Mr Aris, who has three children and four great-grandchildren, said he was "excited" but nervous to do the challenge.

"It was all over very quickly," he said.

"I like the thrill and excitement of a big challenge".

David Aris said he was given the "royal treatment" at Zip World

The zip wire fundraiser is not the first for Mr Aris as he has also taken part in parachute jumps and bike rides in aid of the hospice.

When asked if he would do another challenge, he replied: "I'll have to think about that, I don't know what's next... perhaps deep sea diving?"

Lisa Morgan, community manager of St John’s Hospice, based on Slyne Road in Lancaster, said: "David's energy and commitment to fundraising is simply incredible.

"He never ceases to amaze the fundraising team with his ideas and spirit.

"His love of June and his loyalty to St John's will never leave him and we're doing all we can to support him with his adventures."