A bishop and two reverends abseiled down a church tower in a fundraising event - raising £3,700.

Bishop Philip, Rev. Hannah Boyd and Rev. Bryn Naylor together with scores of parishioners all abseiled down the Holy Trinity church tower in Hoghton on Saturday, September 18.

Rev. Hannah Boyd said: “It was a brilliant day that brought the local community together and we were grateful to our Bishops who were able to attend.

Lancashire Telegraph: Bishop Philp makes his way down the side of the church during the abseil challenge

Bishop Philp makes his way down the side of the church during the abseil challenge

"As well as participating in activities they also took time to make connections and chat to people while they were with us; something that was really appreciated by all.

“The money we have raised will be split between the churches and will help to fund a disabled ramp at All Saints and a new projector and screen at Holy Trinity.”

Lancashire Telegraph: Rev Hannah Boydmakes her way down the side of the church during the abseil challenge

Rev Hannah Boyd makes her way down the side of the church during the abseil challenge

As well as the main event, other activities were held on the day including a potato growing challenge in which Rt Rev. Dr Jill Duff, Bishop of Lancaster, presented the prizes.

The following day, Rt Rev. Julian Henderson, Bishop of Blackburn led a special service which followed the fun day.

The whole occasion was also a great chance for the church family to be together and enjoy each other’s company in the wake of lockdown and they were joined by many members of the wider community who turned up to support and take part.

Lancashire Telegraph: Rev Bryn Naylor seen from a distance as he makes his way down the church tower

Rev Bryn Naylor seen from a distance as he makes his way down the church tower

In a report on the event Elisabeth Sawle, Churchwarden at Holy Trinity, Hoghton, added: “Throughout the pandemic the parishes of All Saints Higher Walton and Holy Trinity Hoghton have worked hard to be a witness to their communities and to draw people together, through helping the housebound and lonely, broadcasting services and leafleting information.

“As we came out of lockdown it seemed a wonderful opportunity to hold a joint fundraising event and reach out to the community; and as the event was held outside, we were hoping it would encourage anyone who may be apprehensive about coming and meeting with others.”

The churches have a JustGiving page if anyone wants to give online https://justgiving.com/campaign/abseil2021