Blind BBC presenter raises £600 rock-climbing in Dorset

A BLIND BBC presenter has raised £600 abseiling and rock-climbing for a Dorset charity.

The Dorset Blind Association has announced blind BBC presenter Amar Latif has raised £600 for the charity abseiling and rock climbing.

Done with the help of the Land and Wave team, Amar abseiled down the Dancing Ledge in Swanage before he rock climbed his way up the limestone cliffs using sound and touch to feel his way.

Outdoor instructor, Verity, who wore black-out goggles for the climb said: " “It activated an immediate trust and respect in each other. We instantly connected. It was a surreal experience that left me feeling more in tune with the landscape.

"I am full of respect for people who are visually impaired. Trust and instinct are so important. Just hearing Amar constantly joking and having to chase his speed gave me the confidence to trust my body.

"Amar and I exchanged our experiences all afternoon, bridging the gap between sighted and non-sighted."

Both Verity and Amar had a sighted guide to assist them on the climb.

The challenge was led by the Land & Wave in a bid to understand some of the accessibility challenges the blind and visually impaired community face.