Thrill-seekers are being offered the rare chance to abseil down one of Ipswich's tallest buildings this summer.

Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity’s extreme abseil at the Ipswich Hospital maternity block, which stands at 135ft tall, is taking place on Saturday, July 29 and Sunday, July 30.

The popular event helps raise cash for patient care at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which runs Ipswich and Colchester hospitals.

Last year's event raised more than £100,000, with Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity hoping to top that total when the abseil returns in the summer.

It is only open to people aged 16 and over.

Ipswich Star: ESNEFT deputy chief nurse Emma Sweeney taking partESNEFT deputy chief nurse Emma Sweeney taking part (Image: Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity)

Hayley Reed, who took part in the abseil last year after she was diagnosed with cancer, raised more than £1,400 last year.

She said: "My world changed overnight when I was diagnosed with cancer in 2019. If it were not for the amazing staff at Ipswich Hospital, the hardest fight of my life would have been even harder.

"I cannot thank them enough for the support they gave us as a whole family during my treatment and the continued support throughout my recovery.

"Taking part in the abseil was my small way of giving something back."

Emma Sweeney, ESNEFT deputy chief nurse, also braved the heights in 2022.

She said: "The view from the top really is incredible and I truly appreciated my experience alongside our wonderful supporters. It was a moment I will never forget.

"I would encourage everyone to consider taking part in this fantastic and exciting challenge to help raise funds for our charity.

"It really does make an unbelievable difference to our staff, patients, and their friends and family."