Rector's fundraising church steeple climb

Father Steven Emerson undertook the 46m climb in his dog collar and brogues

A church rector has climbed a 13th Century Sussex steeple to fundraise for its repairs.

Father Steven Emerson, rector of St Andrew's in West Tarring, near Worthing, undertook the 46m (150ft) climb in his dog collar and brogues.

His fundraising effort will go towards helping to repair the steeple of the historic church.

Father Emerson said it was "exhilarating" and "much less scary than I expected it to be".

Steven Emerson is a regular rock and mountain climber

He said: "The ladder changes direction slightly at the top and that was the first time I felt a bit nervous.

"I'm a regular rock and mountain climber but I've never attempted anything like this before."

Two sides of the steeple at the Grade II listed building are currently being re-shingled in cedarwood, costing £30,000 - all of which is being covered by church funds.

The fundraising will go towards repairs to the steeple of the 13th Century church

Father Emerson undertook his epic climb to help with the fundraising.

He said: "Keeping the spire in good condition is so important to the community.

"It was hard to take in all the views with such a big landscape in front of me.

"I was cheered on by a crowd of about 50 people who were all waving to me."

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