THE annual abseil down Southend Hospital is set to raise a ‘sky high’ amount after brave fundraisers tackled the 154ft descent.

Called Tackle the Tower, 64 people took part and lowered themselves down the side of the tower block, which is a staggering ten storeys high.

The event raised cash for the Southend Hospital Charity, working to make patients’ lives better.

Janet Prior, a grandmother of three, took part dressed as Wonder Woman.

Before the abseil, she said: “I’m really looking forward to it actually.”

Her husband, Brian Prior, suffered a heart attack 12 years ago and was able to pull through thanks to the cardiac unit at the hospital.

Janet’s daughter, Julie Hardy, said: “The unit really helped us when my dad fell ill.

“It’s just a way of saying thanks to the hospital.

“It was a spur of the moment thing for her to sign up, she’s always been an adrenaline junky.

“I’m really proud of her.”

Elise Fleetwood, events and corporate relations manager for Southend Hospital Charity, said: “This year’s abseil was another triumph, we are so grateful to everyone that put themselves through this 154ft high challenge for our benefit.

“It was a brilliant day and lots of patients will benefit as a direct result.

“We are hugely thankful to our event sponsors, construction firm Ryan and Walsh limited, their support meant that every penny raised by our abseilers will benefit the hospital.

“We’re hoping that this event will raise in excess of £25,000, an incredible amount of money.”