Pictured above: (left to right) David Swindell from Lincoln with Ester Elliot and Alison Clark of Grantham

Three Chandlers daredevils put their courage to the test on Saturday (19th September) as they abseiled 250 feet down St Wulfram's Church in Grantham, raising over £1,300 for charity.

Lincoln-based Transport Manager David Swindell (25) from Bracebridge Heath took part in The Big Drop Exercise 2009 abseil with colleagues PA Esther Elliot and Sales Executive Alison Clark, who both live and work in Grantham. 

Despite their nerves the trio succeeded in the challenge, organised by the church and the Territorial Army in aid of Help for Heroes and the Army Benevolent Fund which provide rehabilitation to those who have been injured in conflict and support to their families and friends.

Alison (28) said: "It was really good and we all enjoyed the day, despite Esther's nerves as we waited to step over the edge. We just went for it in the end.

"We managed to raise more than we'd hoped for charity and we're now thinking about what we can do next to help a good cause - perhaps a skydive?"

David added: "We're all really keen to do something else now, especially as we managed to top our fundraising target.

"The abseil was really good fun and I enjoyed it just as much as when I did my first abseil years ago, although this time it was nice to do it for charity and help others."

The team had a large crowd of supporters on the day with family and Chandlers staff cheering them on, including Company Director Simon Caunt.

"They all did such a good job and we were all ready proud of their efforts, both in terms of the money they raised and the abseil itself," said Simon. 

Along with the abseil, other less adrenaline-fuelled activities took place on the day including a hog roast, live music, an inflatable assault course and craft stalls.