Angela Lewis, ESS Strategic Relationship and Contract Governance Solution Lead, recently abseiled 100m down Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower to raise funds for the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC).
RNRMC is the principal charity of the Royal Navy, and exists to support sailors, marines and their families for life. Angela joined 14 other supporters to brave the challenge, which was delayed by a day due to high winds in the area!
Angela has worked closely with RNRMC over the last decade, and last year was appointed as a Corporate Ambassador for the organisation.
ESS is an RNRMC Platinum Bridge Partner, with collaborative projects delivered including joint publication of The Galley cookbook, selling of RNRMC merchandise in ESS stores and time spent dismantling old Navy life rafts to be repurposed into bespoke luggage including holdalls and laptop cases.
Angela is also Co-Chair of Compass Group UK & Ireland’s Armed Forces Committee, responsible for engaging with the company’s Armed Forces community and maintaining its commitments as signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant and holders of Gold Armed Forces Recognition Scheme status.
Angela commented:
“I really enjoy working with the RNRMC, collaborating on a number of different projects and it was during one of these planning meetings that the opportunity for me to take part in this challenge came up.
The thought of it was pretty tough. If you know the Spinnaker Tower, and have maybe even walked on the glass floor of the viewing platform, you will understand my hesitation! I had abseiled only once before, but not from that high, and I felt sure this was going to test my resilience. Once the clips were fastened, my trust immediately kicked in, and I was able to be thoroughly present and enjoy the magnificent views and the truly unique experience.
It was a brilliant and unforgettable day – made even better by raising vital funds for the RNRMC. I recognise the significant contributions that the charity makes to Naval personnel and the wider Defence community and was delighted to play my part. Thank you to everyone who supported and provided much appreciated words of encouragement throughout!”
