Thrill seeking employees from Derby Homes, the organisation that manages Derby City Council homes, took part in a hair-raising scheme for charity on Sunday 24 September.

Peter Howell, Ashley Redfern, Alistair Taylor and Steve Giblenn, braved bad weather and vertigo to abseil down the side of the Wilderslowe tower at Derby Royal Infirmary. Undaunted by the 150ft drop, the intrepid four landed at the bottom, relieved but jubilant to have raised vital funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Peter Howell, Maintenance Surveyor said: “The day started off wet, but by the time our turn came the rain had stopped. Waiting to go over the edge was nerve-wracking, but once over the top I think we all enjoyed the journey down – in our own way!”

Phil Davies, Chief Executive of Derby Homes said: “Congratulations to these housing heroes. This unusual way of inspecting a block of flats is just one of the sponsored activities that Derby Homes staff have undertaken in recent years to raise funds for charity. Other stunts by employees have included jumping out of planes, running cross-country and playing golf.  I even did a sponsored slim one Christmas, and lost 3 pounds. We recently raised £500 for the Baby Unit at Derbyshire Children’s Hospital by participating in payroll giving – the tax-free giving scheme.”