Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.

NEWS > Alumnae News > An In - Spire - ation To Us All!

An In - Spire - ation To Us All!

Stella Stephens (nee Buttress), class of 1949, was 88-years-old when she took on her Boldest Challenge Ever - abseiling down the tower of St Mary's in Walton-on-Thames to raise funds for the church.

She was inspired to share her Boldest story after reading about our fearless alumnae who will be rowing across the Atlantic in December as they take part in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge in a bid to raise £100,000 for three cancer charities.

Stella recalls the event two years ago: “It was an amazing experience and on a fine day in September, but nothing like the dangers that Abby, Charlotte and Kat will experience, bless them. What lovely girls they must all be, I shall certainly be rooting for them all the way.”

Stella says the worst part of her challenge was climbing the claustrophobic spiral staircase to the roof.  She explains: “I have no fear of heights since learning to climb mountains in the 1970’s. My husband was not a happy bunny about me taking part, but with eight grandchildren and also a number of greats urging me, I gained his blessing. The best bit was the thrill of all the family and friends below, cheering me on. ‘You can do it Grandma’ still rings in my ears!”

In fact Stella was joined on the abseil by Charles, her grandson, who was 30 that day, and Debbie, her stepdaughter. Between them they raised several hundred pounds for the church.

We hope you will feel just as inspired by Stella’s story as we do.  What’s the boldest thing you’ve ever done? Please send us a photo of your achievement or a video of you telling the tale to alumnae@lehs.org.uk.  And always remember - Hope Favours the Bold.

Similar stories

Madame Kean, former Head of French, who retired 18 months ago after 16 years at LEH, has swapped centre stage in the classroom for a role as ‘supporting artist’ in some of our best… More...

It’s bound to be an emotional day on Sunday (21 April) for paralegal Annabelle Stoney, Class of 2018, who is running the… More...

Please show some LEH love for Police Constable Hannah Bartholomew, Class of 2017, who is excited to be running the Londo… More...

We were sad to hear that Penny Cooper (Nicholson), Class of 1970, passed away peacefully this month aged 71, surrounded … More...

As part of our celebration of Pride Month, we're delighted to invite all members of the Holles Pride Club, and any LGBTQ… More...

Most read

Please show some LEH love for Police Constable Hannah Bartholomew, Class of 2017, who is excited to be running the London Marathon this weekend, on Su… More...

It’s bound to be an emotional day on Sunday (21 April) for paralegal Annabelle Stoney, Class of 2018, who is running the London Marathon in memory of … More...

We were sad to hear that Penny Cooper (Nicholson), Class of 1970, passed away peacefully this month aged 71, surrounded by her family and loved ones. More...

Travel Story Award

 

CONTACT US


Lady Eleanor Holles School
Hanworth Road
Hampton, TW13 3HF

0208 979 1601
alumnae@lehs.org.uk

LEGAL

This website is powered by
ToucanTech