A firefighter and a solicitor scaled great heights for charity as they raised thousands of pounds by walking along part of the Great Wall of China.

Geoff Batten and Steve Unwin joined about 90 others from across Britain for the trek in aid of The Children's Society.

They spent five days hiking 100km of the 600km-long structure - the only man-made object which can be seen from space - from Chengde to Beijing.

Firefighter Mr Batten, 27, of Stone Hill Walk, Abingdon, who raised more than £2,000, said: "We walked about six hours each day. It was difficult at times - it could be very sunny, but still freezing cold some days." Mr Unwin, 41, who lives in Kidlington, raised £3,500.

He said: "We had to be physically and mentally fit, used to strenuous hikes, have a high level of stamina, a strong pair of knees and preferably not suffer from vertigo!"

The solicitor, who works at Fry Heath and Spence, left his wife, Anita, and children, aged seven, four and one, while he went on the trip.

"It was a great opportunity to take part in something a little out of the ordinary and it was in a good cause," said Mr Unwin.

"With a young family, it wouldn't be possible to undertake such a trip normally, but my wife approved and it was a bit of peace and quiet for me! Perhaps next time it will be her turn and I'll stay at home to look after the children," he added.

Story date: Tuesday 23 November

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