STUDENTS and staff braved a 25 metre descent from the top of Wiltshire College's campus in Salisbury.

More than 40 students and staff took part in the daredevil activity on Tuesday.

It was organised by Level 2 Uniformed Public Services (UPS) students to mark the end of their academic year.

For many of those studying UPS it was the second time they have completed an abseil, following a recent trip to Snowdonia, but for other staff and students, it was a way of facing their fears as well as raising money for Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Hannah’s Holiday Home Appeal.

UPS lecturer Claire Eggleton was so terrified of abseiling that she went first to get it out of the way.

She said: “I don’t mind most things, but I was so nervous beforehand – I even resorted to hypnotherapy to calm my nerves.

“I was absolutely terrified but am so glad that I did it now and am really proud of everyone who took part.”

Level 1 UPS student Iona Mason, 17, from Salisbury, said: “A couple of months ago I’d never done an abseil and now I’ve done two.

“I enjoyed completing one in Snowdonia and it was really great to have the opportunity to abseil down the side of the college building.”

David Hiner, 16, a Level 2 UPS student from Sixpenny Handley, added: “I was probably the most nervous of everyone abseiling.

“The worst part was stepping onto the wooden ledge over the side of the building, but once I’d done that it was okay and in the end I actually quite enjoyed it.

“It was good to raise money for such good causes and I’m proud of myself for doing it.”

Wiltshire Outdoor Learning Team made the event possible bringing all the specialist equipment, carrying out health and safety briefings and offering moral support on the day.

More than £1,920 has been raised so far - doubling their original £1,000 target.