Hazel on high after facing fear

Hazel Monroe was terrified of heights - until she spent a day at the NEC’s Outdoors Show.

Hazel, from Goldthorn Park in Wolverhampton, has struggled to climb stepladders and steep hills because of her fear.

That was until she spotted an article in the Express & Star looking for volunteers who wanted to get rid of their phobias at the Birmingham show. “My fear of heights has had a big impact on my life and I would love to try abseiling and climbing,” said Hazel, a mother-of-three.

“I have always wanted to encourage my children to do things and be adventurous but it is difficult when I can’t do these things myself.

“I was desperate to regain my confidence because I’m keen on doing challenges to raise money for charity - and this seemed like a good stepping stone.”Hazel said her children Ryiana, aged seven, Mya, six, and Melissa, 19, have all given her a lot of encouragement.

“Melissa knows about my fears and so when I told her what I was doing she said she would believe it when she sees it,” said Hazel.

“So, when I saw the article in the Express & Star I thought at least I would have photographic proof of my bravery.”

Before doing her challenge, Hazel had a chat with life coach Mike Weeks from London, who spoke to her about her worries. Hazel said: “Mike was really good because he helped me to look at the positives and what I could gain from completing the challenge.”

The Ordnance Survey Outdoors Show, which began yesterday at the Birmingham venue, is offering visitors the chance to experience the great outdoors and try their hand at a range of skills.

One of the challenges people can take on is the “high ropes experience” and Hazel managed to scale a 35ft high climbing pole.

After climbing to the top of the pole Hazel bravely let go and abseiled back down to the ground - relieved to have completed her mission. “I feel I have really achieved something,” she said.