A father will be taking on the challenge of abseiling down the UK’s tallest sculpture to raise funds for the Beckton hospice that cares for his son.

Saam Amerat and his family have been attending Richard House Children’s Hospice since 2008, shortly after Abdullah was diagnosed with Pomde Disease aged just two.

Now aged nine, Abdullah is leading a happy life despite his rare and debilitating muscle condition.

Saam said: “We were initially unsure about what the hospice could offer us because, like many people, we had always associated the word ‘hospice’ with death.”

The family, from Stoke Newington, are now regular users of the hospice.

Saam’s wife Sarah attends a group for mums, while their daughter Ayesha attends one just for siblings.

Saam added: “Because of Abdullah’s condition it is difficult to go away on full holidays so coming here is the next best thing for us.

“Richard House have done a lot for us and other families like us. So I want to try and do something for them.”

Saam will be taking on the 262ft descent of the ArcelorMittal Orbit on May 2.

To sponsor him, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SaamAmerat