Philanthropy
Climbing A London Skyscraper To Raise Funds For NZ 'Quake Victims
A charity stair climb next month at the Gherkin, one of London’s most eye-catching skyscrapers, will help raise money for the victims of the New Zealand earthquake.
On 22 May the Gherkin will open to the public for Step Up 4 Christchurch, allowing around 1,000 participants to join the sponsored climb up the 180 metre tall tower’s 1,037 stairs to the 38th floor. As well as helping New Zealanders in need, participants will be rewarded with a 360° panoramic view of London from the viewing gallery at the top of the tower – normally closed to the public.
The event is being organised by Evans Randall, a London-based investment banking and private equity group which co-owns the Gherkin. The firm is owned by Michael Evans and two New Zealanders, Kent Gardner and Paul Kendrick. When Christchurch was devastated by the quake on 22 February claiming 180 lives and destroying 10,000 homes, both Gardner and Kendrick’s family and friends were caught up in the disaster.
“Funds are urgently needed and Step Up 4 Christchurch is a great way to help,” said Gardner in a press release. “We’re urging not only New Zealanders in the UK but everyone to take part, come along on the day and help make a difference for the thousands of people in Christchurch whose lives were devastated by this disaster.”
Evans Randall is covering the cost of staging the event, so all sponsorship money raised will go directly to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal. The firm has also donated £50,000 to the appeal fund. A number of other companies are also lending their support and entering stair climbing teams, including CBRE, Clifford Chance, SJBerwin, KPMG and Bedells.
In addition to the sponsored stair climb, the event will feature entertainment, live music, food and drinks as part of a New Zealand-themed family day.
The stair climb is open to all, no matter what their fitness level. After all, for an extra donation participants can opt to use the lift.
Full details of the day and how to register for the stair climb can be found at www.stepup4christchurch.com
