STAFF and pupils from Redhill Preparatory School braved the Pembroke Castle abseil recently to raise money for a charity close to their hearts.

The abseil down the castle’s Keep was to raise money for ‘Amelie’s Rainbow’ a charity set up by head girl Amelie Kessels who was recently diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Amelie, 10, has undergone surgery but her treatment will continue for sometime so the school wanted to fundraise for her.

However, she was adamant that they should raise money for the children’s cancer charities which have supported her to enable other children and families to benefit so Ameilie’s Rainbow was formed.

Following the abseil Amelie said: "A huge thank you to everyone who took part and thank you to anyone who donates!"

Headteacher Jane Stevens added: "We are all so proud of Amelie, she has shown such courage at a difficult time and is such a positive role model for others. It is amazing that she is thinking of others and wants them to receive the same support she has received. We feel honoured to support her through this difficult challenge."

The children, staff and parents have already had a cake sale, coffee morning with a total of more than £1,000 raised and future events are being planned including a skydive.