As someone who has never abseiled before, I was naturally apprehensive when an opportunity arose to do just that down the Anfield Main Stand.
Launched at the start of this month by Liverpool, supporters have been provided with an exhilarating experience to complete at the home of the Reds.
From the moment I arrived in L4, the team in charge of running 'The Anfield Abseil' make sure to run through the key safety details while ensuring you are fitted with all the necessary equipment.
READ MORE: Sadio Mane is not the player Liverpool have missed most this season
READ MORE: Alexander-Arnold fumes at team-mate as Henderson tries to pull fast one
One mistake I made was wearing work shoes, having come straight from the ECHO office, which meant my grip was not as strong as it could have been when making my way down the Main Stand. Trainers are certainly the best option!
With my helmet on and harness attached, I was escorted to the roof of the Main Stand as I readied myself for the daunting prospect of what was to come. My nerves were temporarily eased by the stunning views of the city offered from this position, including several iconic landmarks that appear all the more impressive from this vantage point.
Before moving off the ledge to mark the start of my 100ft descent, you are given further safety guidance by the individual managing the procedure. Details include how best to position your legs as you prepare to move back as well as the process of handling the rope to support yourself.
Much of what was being said was alien to me due to my lack of exposure to activities of this nature, but I eventually adopted the required position to begin the process of leaning back. As it often the case in settings such as these, the first step is always the most challenging – and this was no different. Once you have both feet firmly gripped to the Main Stand, everything becomes far simpler and I soon found myself on the ground after successfully completing the Anfield Abseil.
One feature of the experience I particularly found useful was the reassurance you receive from the leader of the exercise stood on the roof, along with their support team, and the individual who is waiting to collect you. After noticing my shaky start to the abseil, staff members called out offer any relevant advice having observed my initial movements.
Should you come under the category of someone who is scared of heights, I would highly recommend the Anfield Abseil as the perfect package to overcoming this fear. You will be made to feel in control of the situation by the on-site experts, who are well-versed in overseeing this operation. Suitable for both beginners and those with an extensive background of scaling mountains, there will be a shared sense of achievement and adrenaline rush once you reach the bottom of the Main Stand.
Participants must be at least 10 years of age. Those under 18 will require parental consent completed via an online waiver and adult supervision at a maximum ratio of 1:2. There is no upper age limit as long as you are fit and healthy. A weight limit of 21 stone/ 120kg applies, and anyone who is pregnant cannot take part.
An ideal birthday present, youth tickets (10-17 years) cost £38 with adult admissions priced at £45. A 10% discount is available for Liverpool season ticket holders and official members by using the promotion code ‘MEMB10ABSEIL’ when finalising your purchase, though this must be verified on the day by presenting an NFC pass on your phone to highlight your relevant qualification for the offer.
Included as part of the package of the Anfield Abseil, those taking on this challenge will also receive a certificate of achievement featuring your name, a souvenir wristband, photographs of you at the top of the Main Stand and free entrance to the Liverpool Story Museum (normally priced at £10 for adults and £6 for children). All equipment will be provided on the day - you do not need to bring anything with you. But do remember to wear the right shoes...
The Anfield Abseil can be booked online by clicking here.
READ NEXT:
Potter is wrong about Klopp because Liverpool and Chelsea couldn't be more different
Every FSG and Liverpool FC investor and how much they're worth
Darwin Nunez injury update after Liverpool striker missed Crystal Palace draw
Jurgen Klopp reveals reasons for Naby Keita and Trent Alexander-Arnold substitutions
Liverpool accident inside half an hour against Crystal Palace sums up tortuous season
