DAREDEVILS are being encouraged to take the plunge into abseiling for a local charity.

Brave souls across the county are being asked to raise money for East Lancashire Hospice, Park Lee, Blackburn, by taking part in something which, though a fun event, is not for the faint-hearted.

The properly supervised fundraiser is being organised in conjunction with Skyline on May 11 and 12 when people will be abseiling down Manchester Town Hall.

All the money raised on the day will go towards caring for patients suffering from terminal or life-threatening illnesses.

Stuart Andrew, Fundraising Manager at the hospice, said: "This is going to be a great event.

"We have had one before but would like even more people to take part this year. Manchester Town Hall is a magnificent building.

"It really is a challenge but those who joined in last time enjoyed the thrill."

The hospice has to raise £300,000 a year from voluntary donations. With this in mind they are appealing for people who have donated money, or who are going to do so, to fill out a Gift Aid declaration form.

The form confirms the benefactor is a taxpayer so the charity can reclaim the tax.

Mr Andrew added: "We have already managed to claim a lot of money through Gift Aid. We know there are probably a lot of people whose donations we could increase at no extra cost to them personally."

Anybody interested in taking part in the abseil, or who wants a declaration form, should call Mr Andrew on 01254 660900.