Bishop of Guildford takes on 'daring descent' to raise key funds
Bishop Andrew John Watson will be raising funds for two organisations
Last updated 14th Jun 2025
The Bishop of Guildford will be abseiling down the side of his own cathedral today.
Bishop Andrew John Watson will be joined by at least 20 others as they look to raise money for the cathedral's upkeep, as well as the Bishop's Communities Fund.
Before they take 'daring descent' down the 160-foot-tall building, they will climb the 249 steps of the cathedral to reach the top, being at the highest point in Guildford.
“We are incredibly grateful to all who are participating in the Daring Descent to raise funds for the ongoing maintenance and mission of Guildford Cathedral,” said Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral.
“It costs £3,500 every day to keep our doors open, and these funds will ensure we can continue to serve our community, preserve our historic building, and offer a beautiful space of welcome, worship and culture.”
Bishop Watson added: “I don’t have the greatest head for heights, but am looking forward to the Daring Descent as a way of highlighting two great causes which I support every month: the Bishop of Guildford’s Communities Fund and our beloved Cathedral Church of the Holy Spirit'"
The Bishop of Guildford’s Communities Fund (BGCF) exists to reach out to disadvantaged and vulnerable people across the Diocese of Guildford, the fund made just over £26,000 in grants year.