A HAMPSHIRE vicar took a leap of faith when he joined scores of people who abseiled down one of the tallest tower blocks in Southampton.

The Rev Richard Burningham and his 15-year-old daughter Helen inched their way down the 260ft drop in an effort to raise hundreds of pounds for charity.

Mr Burningham, of Holy Trinity Church in Weston, said the 24-storey drop was a test of his faith when he realised he was only supported by the rope.

He said: "It was a bit hairy when I went over the edge and basically put my entire faith in the rope. But once I was on my way it was a case of getting down as quickly as possible.

"I am not sure I'd do it again as it was a long way down but it was certainly worth it for such a great cause."

Mr Burningham was among 125 people from around the city who were raising money for the medical research charity Action Research by descending from the roof of Canberra Towers in Weston.

Organiser Sarah Stevenson said she admired all the volunteers.

"I take my hat off to everyone who has taken part in today's fundraiser," she said.

It is hoped thousands of pounds will be raised for the charity's Touching Lives appeal that raises money for research into childhood illnesses.