TV host Helen Skelton bravely took on the challenge of canoeing along Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, the UK’s longest and highest aqueduct, after research reveals that the most common fear among Brits is acrophobia, or fear of heights.
A survey involving 2,000 adults discovered that a quarter confess to having an uncommon phobia, with odd triggers such as cotton wool, coat hangers, and cacti causing distress.
They also listed some rather unusual fears, including bubble wrap, unvarnished wood, and even the jingle of an ice cream van. While another bizarre phobia is trypophobia a revulsion towards objects with repetitive patterns, like those found in honeycombs or sponges.
In an effort to help Brits confront their biggest fears, Virgin Red, who conducted the study, has initiated a competition encouraging people to face their phobias and undertake activities that frighten them. Helen Skelton rose to the challenge with her canoe along the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
A representative for the rewards group that commissioned the study stated: “Fear can obstruct astonishing experiences, sometimes there’s no rhyme or reason behind it, but it’s crucial that people tackle what’s making them scared every now and then.”
(Image: PinPep)
They added: “We are encouraging Brits to leave their fear of heights behind, to create memories which will last forever. By entering the ‘Paddle Partners’ competition, we’re giving someone the chance to own their fear by canoeing along Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. If you can get across that, you’ve well and truly conquered your fears.”
Of all those questioned, 40% felt being with someone else was the best way to conquer them, closely followed by being inspired watching someone else (32%). And two thirds confessed they knew their fears were completely irrational.
An impressive 87% say they attempt to confront what frightens them while 41% said they have even triumphed over fears they previously held.
A spokesperson for Virgin Red chimed in: “There’s no right or wrong way to tackle what’s holding you back, but some strong encouragement can go a long way.”
“Once you get past barriers stopping you from facing up to your fears, you can unlock unbeatable experiences.”
BRITS TOP FEARS
- Heights
- Public speaking
- Snakes
- Spiders
- Getting old
- Enclosed spaces
- Losing your mobile phone
- Social interaction with strangers
- Needles
- Flying on planes or helicopters
- Falling over in public
- Not being able to find a clean toilet
- Accidently sending a text to the wrong person
- The dark
- Being alone
- Germs
- Thunderstorms
- Clowns
- Dogs
- Sending a ‘reply all’ email
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
