Kitted out in full firefighter uniform, including heavy breathing apparatus, 12 firefighters - including the chief and deputy chief fire officer - took part in the gruelling ladder climb, which was one of three activities to mark the 2012 chief fire officer firefighter challenge.

Meanwhile, council staff hitched a ride high above Russell Road in Ipswich on a turntable ladder, while others joined cabinet member Colin Spence by abseiling five floors of the council’s headquarters, Endeavour House, with some help from specially trained crews.

All of the events will raise money through sponsorship for three charities: The Fire Fighters Charity, Suffolk Family Carers and the Fire Service Sports and Athletics Association.

Cllr Colin Spence, cabinet member for Public Protection, and participant in the supported abseil said:

“I thoroughly enjoyed today’s event, and was honoured to be playing my part. The annual firefighter challenge is a key date in the calendar, and is a way for Suffolk Fire and Rescue to get people involved in raising money for some very worthwhile causes.

“It was a little daunting to be so high up, but I felt safe at all times with the support of one of the county’s outstanding firefighters, who often have to rescue someone from height during the course of their work. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all those who have sponsored me today. I am really pleased to have made a positive contribution towards this event.”

This year’s event is being held as part of the build up to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The ladder-climbing challenge will continue with firefighters at fire stations around the county taking part over the coming weeks.

Andy Fry, Suffolk Fire & Rescue’s Chief Fire Officer, said:

“Today’s event was great fun, and I hope that everyone enjoyed it. It showcases three of the core elements of a firefighter’s role: working at height, demonstrating agility and stamina and, perhaps most importantly, the ability to work well and communicate effectively with colleagues to get the job done.

I was proud of the team today, and would like to thank everyone who raised money for our chosen charities.”