Climbing event hits new peak

Elite climbers from across the globe descended – or should that be ascended – on Exeter this weekend.

They were taking part in the Quay Climbing Centre’s Deep Water Solo event, which sees a seven-metre wall built into the canal basin. Competitors climb without ropes and drop in to the canal when they lose their grip.

And there were also some familiar local faces who were trying their hand at the sport for the first time.

Brave city councillors Rosie Denham and Emma Morse gave the wall a go, and they were accompanied by former footballer and Exeter City football Club sport development officer Scott Walker.

Paul Russell, a director at Quay Climbing Centre, said: ‘It was great to see the guys try the wall out. Climbing is growing in popularity and we are just so privileged to be able to bring an event like this to Exeter.’

Julian Tagg, chairman of Exeter City Football Club, was on hand to give Scott some encouragement.

He said: ‘We were really pleased to be able to support this event. At Exeter City we take our role in the community very seriously and events like this are so important in getting the message out to people of all ages that their health and fitness are so important.

‘Scott told us he had never climbed before, but he was great – we’re going to enter him into the competition next year.’

This is the third year the event has taken place. Organisers are inviting more local businesses to get involved with sponsorship at next year’s event.

Paul added: ‘This is a fantastic chance for a local company to raise their profile, we have thousands of spectators, as well as brilliant media coverage. We’d love them to come down this year and have a chat and see what they can get involved in.’