Staff and students at Solihull College tried their hand at abseiling to raise funds for charity.

STUDENTS and staff at Solihull College and University Centre swapped books and pens for ropes and carabiners as part of an abseiling fundraising challenge.
Brave fundraisers took it in turns to put on a harness and helmet and make their way to the top of the three storey computing centre before moving closer to the edge to abseil their way down the building.
Joining in with the fun was Lord Mayor of Solihull Coun Mike Robinson, who proved to be a natural at abseiling down the sheer drop after some gentle persuasion.
Participants were raising funds for the Mad Hatter’s Children’s Charity, which works with youngsters with special educational needs and disabilities across the Midlands.
To sign up to the event, participants were tasked with raising a minimum of £50 in sponsorship to be donated.
Already this year the college’s student enrichment team have worked closely with the children’s charity to organise the event which also included a Mad Hatter’s themed afternoon tea party.
Stephen Goldstein, chairman of the Mad Hatter’s Charity, said he was overwhelmed with the support the charity received from the college for the event.
He added: “Both students and staff were so willing to give up their time to take part in what was a brilliant day.
“A great day was had by all – for the benefit of the children that Mad Hatter’s supports.”
Performing Arts student Olivia Shread was instrumental in the fundraising efforts as she volunteered to dress as the Queen of Hearts for the day to raise awareness for the event.
With the support of friends, Olivia helped to collect donations prior to the event with a massive £600 already raised for the charity.
College Principal John Callaghan also took part in abseiling down the building as colleagues and students looked on.
Visit www.madhatterscharity.com for further information about Mad Hatter’s.