VISITORS at an iconic Somerset landmark would have seen something remarkable last weekend: more than 80 people dressed as Santa abseiling down Cheddar Gorge's cliffs.

People of all ages braved the 60ft abseil to raise money for St Margaret's Hospice, a lcoal charity that cares for people at the end of their lives.

They enjoyed the gorge's breathtaking views on Saturday, December 3, overcoming a winter chill to complete the charity's first-ever abseil challenge.

Supporters raised over £20,000 in sponsorship - but the charity has asked people to keep donating to help it care for patients and their families this Christmas.

Ellie Weston, marketing and events officer at St Margaret’s, said: “We’re so proud of our amazing supporters who faced their fears on Saturday.

“It was fantastic to see so many Santas abseiling down Cheddar Gorge to raise funds for St Margaret’s Hospice.

“The money they have raised so far could pay for 200 community nurse visits across Somerset however every month our community nurses make 800 visits to patients receiving care at home, so we hope our abseilers continue to keep raising valuable sponsorship.

“Thank you to Cave and Climb, our amazing volunteers and the event sponsors Sheppy’s, Refresco, and Rotec Hydraulics for supporting us this year.

“We can’t wait to see everyone again at our upcoming events.”

Anyone who missed out on this year's abseil can register their interest for next year's event by visiting www.st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/santa-abseil.