DOZENS of brave fundraisers descended from the i360 in a charity abseiling challenge.

The group went to the 162m high attraction on Brighton seafront on Saturday night, where they were told it would take three minutes to reach the ground.

They were raising thousands of pounds for The Martlets, which provides end-of-life care and support for patients and their families across the city.

Martlets head of events Charlotte Bolton said the money would make a huge difference and capture people’s imagination about the charity.

Among those taking part was Gina Beland, 69, from Hove, who was roped in by pal Teresa Speary, 74, from Southwick.

Gina completed the challenge for her forthcoming 70th birthday, while Teresa has enjoyed completing similar adrenaline fuelled thrills. She is an end-of-life companion volunteer for Martlets hospice. Together they had raised more than £1,000.

Property Moves boss Graham Shipp was among those from the business community taking part.

The 40-year-old from Hove had raised £2,500 and was completing the challenge for his recent birthday after seeing the event advertised in The Argus.

Simon Green has had friends who have been cared for by the hospice, and was joined by Baptiste Poirier and Raul Santa Maria Villanova from Hayward and Green Aerospace Ltd in Henfield.

Former Martlets volunteer Maria Phillips also took part, raising £1,200 for the charity.

Meanwhile construction recruitment firm Shore Group were represented by Phil Navichas, 29, and Sophia White, 23.

Sophia said her mum was treated by the Martlets last May, and received donations from colleagues.