Terrified clergyman Mark Hammond said a little prayer before jumping from a church tower on Saturday.

Luckily his trust in God and the safety team behind a sponsored abseil at St Nicholas Church in Harpenden paid off.

The Rev Hammond from High Street Methodist Church was among a host of clergy who took a leap of faith to raise money for Christian Aid.

In total, 40 abseiled to raise more than £11,000 for the charity, which aims to end poverty.

Also joining was 81-year-old Mary Down, who made her way down the 90 foot historic church tower without hesitation.

She said: "I was so excited to take part.

“Faith, fun and a little bit of fear culminated in a fantastic way to support a great cause.”

The minister for St Nicholas’ and former St Albans Diocesan Director of Ministry, the Rev Dennis Stamps, also tackled the tower, with his underwear on the outside in true superhero fashion.

Speaking on behalf of Christian Aid, Adrian said: “To date, the event has raised over £11,000 – a fantastic result from a great day.

“Thank you to all who volunteered their help on Saturday and in preparation for the event.”