MORE than 50 charitable thrill-seekers took part in a sponsored abseil down an historic tower in Walton.

Daredevils raised £6,000 for the Red Cross by descending down the 86ft Grade II listed Naze Tower.

A barbecue was also held by the Friends of the Naze Tower to raise cash for the upkeep of the tower, which was built by Trinity House in 1720.

“We had a beautiful day and everybody enjoyed themselves,” said Red Cross fundraiser Yvonne Jackson.

“There were more than 50 abseilers – the youngest was only 13 and the oldest was 83.

“The abseil instructors on the tower were very calm and understanding, and even those whose whole bodies were shaking with fear eventually trusted their reassuring jokes and advice.”