Fundraisers brave 34m abseil from church tower

Fundraisers with a head for heights took the plunge to abseil the 34-metre tower of a Norfolk church.

The great tower of St Mary's Church in Redenhall, near Harleston, can be seen for miles looming over the rolling hills of the Waveney valley.

Despite the weather forecast of lightning which threatened the event being postponed, 19 abseilers climbed the tower steps before braving a quicker descent to raise money for Christian Aid and their overseas development work.

Julian Bryant, regional coordinator for Christian Aid, said: "I was so impressed with how brave people were. The Redenhall Church tower is very high and we had people between the ages of 10 and 70 abseiling down. Some people were scared of heights and still did it.

"People came from different places including Harleston, Norwich and even Cambridge. The smiles on the faces of those landing showed what an achievement it was both for them but also for people living in poverty overseas."

Abseiler Catherine Richardson said: "Once I had trusted the rope and knew it was taking my weight I was much happier then to push myself out and down. Once I was off the ledge I actually enjoyed it!"

All those who took part were presented with an achievement certificate as part of the event which will raise over £1,500 with sponsorship money still coming in.