A GROUP of business people from Alton, Petersfield, Haslemere and Liphook, who met through networking, have abseiled from the top of the Spinnaker Tower, raising more than £4,000 for a six-year-old boy.

Theo has West Syndrome, which is a form of epilepsy. He also has global development delay and severe learning difficulties. Since December 2015, Theo, from Winchester, has been taking part in a specially devised therapy programme provided by the children’s charity Brainwave. So far, the programme has helped Theo to develop his knowledge, understanding and communication as well as improving his balance which was the key to him learning to walk.

Speaking after the abseil, Rachel Maunder, regional director of the NE Hampshire and Surrey Borders Athena Network, said: “At the age of five, Theo took his first steps and now, thanks to the generosity of our supporters, he has the chance of further independence.

“The money we have raised means that Theo now has the funding to take part in the Brainwave therapy programme for the next year. He will be taught sign language in order that he can communicate with his family and friends.

“We are delighted to be making such changes possible for Theo which, in turn, affect his whole family. This whole adventure has also reflected the aims and objectives of the Athena Network, with masses of collaboration, support and encouragement from so many people.”

Rachel has groups in Haslemere, Alton, Petersfield and Liphook.

Anybody who would like to contribute toward Theo’s care can find out more at justgiving.com/fundraising/athenanetworknehants.

The abseilers pictured with Theo are Doreen Burton (Bates Solicitors, Alton Athena), Kerstin Ochel (Fashion Fantasies, Petersfield Athena), Madeline Cumming (Haslemere Computer Training), Rachel Maunder (regional director of Athena NE Hampshire/Surrey Borders), Patrick Slavin (Athena MD), Sarah Matthews (Crimson Graphics, Liphook Athena), Maria Yadegar (Starlight Murals, Liphook Athena), Mark Smith, and Lorna Smith (WPA Healthcare, Petersfield Athena).