Ninety charity champions braved cold winds and a 100-foot drop at the KM Abseil Charity Challenge to raise more than £9,000 for good causes across Kent.

Participants championed 22 charitable organisations including Gravesend charity Stacey’s Smiles, Cancer Research UK and Porchlight.

Local heroes included Joanne Hiscock, Ward Tipling, Sarah Taylor, Katherine Hilless, Phoenix Reilly, Angela Farrell and Kellie Baldacchino, all from Gravesend, who took part in aid of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support, the Messenger’s Charity of the Year. Dartford resident Joanne Farmer took the plunge for Jack Russell Terrier Rescue.

It was organised by the KM Group’s charity department and took place at one of the county’s tallest landmarks, Thomas Place in Maidstone.

Alex Andrews, from event partner Wilkins Kennedy, said: “We are really excited to be supporting the KM Abseil Challenge. It’s the second one this year and it’s an absolute sell-out so we’re really pleased.” The firm of chartered accountants also joined in with staff going over the top for Demelza Hospice care for children.

Organiser Dominic Comins of the KM Charity Team said: “We are delighted and humbled by the number of people who tackled the elements and a knee-knocking challenge to help their favourite charities. They should all be immensely proud of themselves.

“I’d like to thank Housing and Care 21, who run Thomas Place, and Wilkins Kennedy for all their support in enabling this to take place.”

As well as abseils, the KM Charity Team stages annual events including the KM Big Bike Ride, KM Colour Run, KM Charity Walk, KM Dragon Boat Race, and the KM Assault Course Challenge. To book a place on any KM charity challenge, visit kmcharityteam.co.uk/booking

Good causes wanting to find out about teaming up with the KM Charity Team to support their fundraising can visit the above website or contact Simon Dolby on 07989 164 752 or email sdolby@thekmgroup.co.uk.