A VICAR is swapping his cassock for a hard hat and safety equipment to abseil down his own church tower.

Father Raymond Cuthbertson, from St John's Church, Shildon, has volunteered to take the plunge in a bid to raise money for charity.

Both he and Shildon councillor Mike Hardy tackle the challenge every year and are hoping that more people will join them this year.

Coun Hardy said: "It is fun, anyone can come and join in and it is for a good cause, after all.''

The pair will abseil from the church's clock tower on Saturday, June 28.

There will be a church fete from 10am to 3pm on the same day.

Candidates wishing to join in the fun must be over 16 and reasonably fit.

All the equipment will be provided, and there will be expert tuition to guide people safely down from the top of the tower.

Money raised this year will go to The Butterwick Hospice, The Countryside Movement and St John's Church.

People taking part can raise money for the charity of their choice provided they pay a £20 administration fee. For further details call (01388) 603003.