Cumbria's Helen Skelton has issued an inspiring message after facing her fears and canoeing over the world's highest aqueduct.

The beloved TV presenter recently took her sense of adventure to new heights as she traversed across the aqueduct in Wales and called on Brits to follow suit in a bid to tackle their fear of heights.

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, located in the picturesque Dee Valley in North Wales, offers views across the river Dee to those daring enough to gaze over the impressive 126ft drop.

With more than a third (35%) of Brits having a fear of heights; Virgin Red has announced today it’s helping the nation tackle that fear by giving three lucky winners the chance to canoe across the aqueduct in North Wales.  

The winners will have to face up to their fears, taking on the altitude with attitude for an unforgettable day out.

For the chance to win a spot as a ‘Paddle Partner’ and face your fear of heights with Virgin Red, visit here. Entries are valid from 25th October 2024 to 25th November 2024.  

Attacking the day with positivity and a smile on her face, Skelton showed that those with a fear of heights can find a sense of calm – or even enjoyment – while confronting the challenge.   

“Nothing competes with the thrill of taking on a new challenge"

Helen said: “Nothing competes with the thrill of taking on a new challenge and facing your fears – I love an adrenaline rush! 

“However, I know that sitting in a canoe at 126 feet doesn’t induce excitement for everyone. Facing your fears must be one of the hardest things you can do, but the sense of achievement afterwards is amazing.

"There’s no right or wrong way to tackle what’s holding you back, but some strong encouragement can go a long way. Once you get past the barriers stopping you from facing your fears, you can unlock unbeatable experiences!” 

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Kelly Best, Managing Director of Product, Customer Experience and Marketing at Virgin Red: “Virgin Red is the means to unlocking extraordinary Virgin experiences, so we’re thrilled to be giving three lucky winners the chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime day out at the world’s highest aqueduct – just like Helen.   

“We are encouraging Brits to leave their fear of heights behind and create memories which will last forever. By entering the ‘Paddle Partners’ competition, we’re giving someone the chance to own their fear by canoeing along Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – the longest and highest in the UK.

"If you can get across that, you’ve well and truly conquered at least one of your fears.”