FAINTING from involuntary terror and plunging over the precipice to my doom at the cliffs’ base were my worst illogical fears.

But mustering common sense and a naturally contrary streak, I overcame my natural instincts to rise above (literally) these misgivings and signed up for a Kent Charity Challenge abseil.

And when the time came, I took the plunge and lived. And what’s more, with some 70 other people who took part, we helped raise £6,570 towards two extremely valuable causes.

Needless to say, the abseil was utterly terrifying at the start.

No way did I want to go anywhere near the edge let alone walk backwards off the 80ft cliffs at Screaming Alley, West Cliff, Ramsgate.

What got me through the ordeal was complete confidence instilled in me by the team of professionals managing the abseil through their reassurances and encouragement.

There was also great camaraderie with others taking part. Many like me hated heights but were determined to go for it.

Once over the top it even became enjoyable. I didn’t look down to start with and once I felt secure enough to do so, the views were spectacular.

Dangling on a rope in a place few people would ever go seemed like a great privilege as did the chance to tackle one’s fears and come through a survivor, reinforced by the experience.

This was an event organised in December 2006 in conjunction with the Thanet Extra in aid of our Baby Reece Appeal in memory of little Reece Price, from Cliftonville, who died of Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

The proceeds were split 70/30 between The Jennifer Trust to help SMA sufferers and their families and the Kent and Medway Walking Bus Group.

I would thoroughly recommend giving the experience a go. And guess what! There is now a second rare chance to take part in a Kent Charity Challenge abseil at Ramsgate on December 6.

VITAL funds will be raised for children suffering from cancer at a Kent Charity Challenge abseil at Ramsgate on Saturday, December 6.

Participants have to commit to raising a minimum of only £75 in order to plunge some 80ft from Screaming Alley at West Cliff in aid of CLIC Sargent and the Kent and Medway Walking Bus Group.

They are guaranteed the experience of a lifetime and the satisfaction of helping two extremely deserving causes.

To whet your appetite for a taste of the experience read reporter Mary Louis’s description.

If you would like to take part, simply fill in the attached coupon and send it off. For more details contact Janine Terrana at jterrana@kmcharitychallenge.co.uk

or visit www.kmcharitychallenge.co.uk