A six-year-old autistic boy raised money for charity by climbing the Shard three times, winning him and his family a private event at the iconic landmark.
Albie Lavallee climbed 930m at his local climbing centre, three times the height of the Shard, to raise money for the National Autistic Society.
From Charlton Kings in Cheltenham, Albie took on the challenge in April, Autism Awareness Month, with a personal connection to the cause, having autism and a speech delay himself.
Albie raised over £1,500 for climbing the Shard’s height – 310m – three times over, with the Shard celebrated as London’s tallest landmark.
His original goal was £500.
Although he started off aiming for eight climbs per session at his local climbing centre, 270 Climbing, in Gloucestershire, he started climbing ten to 12 walls every visit, quickly reaching 930m.
The Shard invited Albie and his family to a private experience at the viewing platform to celebrate his achievement, including the Peter Pan Afternoon Tea at Aqua Shard with it.
Albie enjoyed the day out with his mum, dad and one-year-old brother, and was given a commemorative coin to remember the day by.
Albie’s mum, Corrie, said: “We wanted to raise awareness of autism in a way that means a lot to us and Albie, and the height of The Shard felt like the perfect challenge.
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“Albie was thrilled when he found out he’d been invited to visit, especially when he realised he wouldn’t actually have to climb it himself!
“Climbing is his happy place it gives him confidence, joy and a real sense of achievement – we are so proud of what he has achieved.”
