Norman reaches the heights for charity at the age of 81

His efforts were all for charity – helping Candlelighters, a children’s cancer charity, based in Leeds, and the Royal Marines Benevolent Association.

Mr Garratt, of Farsley, Leeds, a former heating engineer, said of his decision to abseil: “I enjoy it.

“Its just taking that first step.

“If only I could do more. Nothing would be too much trouble if it helps Candlelighters and the Royal Marines.”

Saturday’s abseil down the Princes Exchange, in Leeds, is not the first time that Mr Garratt has scaled the heights for charity.

In 2009 the Leeds-based Candlelighters charity organised the same event, in which Mr Garratt also took part.

Sally Amos, from Candlelighters said Saturday’s abseil, had not bothered Mr Garratt at all.

She said: “Everyone with the exception of Norman was nervous. He was as jolly as can be.”

DLA Piper Solicitors, who are based at Princes Exchange, allowed the abseil to take place down the company’s building and eighty other fund-raisers also completed the daredevil challenge – including staff from DLA Piper.

Cash raised for Candlelighters will be used to provide facilities for patients and also holidays for the children.