Family pays tribute to abseil pensioner

Gertrude Painter was in her kit, ready to descend 70ft (21m) from the roof of Crawley Hospital in West Sussex on Saturday, when she collapsed.

Despite efforts to revive her, Mrs Painter, known as Gertie, was pronounced dead at the scene, prompting the second half of the charity abseil to be called off.

The pensioner was one of around 50 people taking part in the sponsored event for 4Sight – West Sussex Association for the Blind.

Mrs Painter’s family said in a statement: “Gertie was an amazing lady. She was spirited, full of character and was much loved by her family and friends.

“She passed away doing what she loved best – raising money for charities that supported children with cancer and people with visual impairment.

“This was going to be Gertie’s 10th abseil and, although she would have been disappointed not to complete it, she would have wanted everyone to be inspired by her efforts.”