THE contrasting ordeals of body waxing and dizzying heights were endured by fundraisers in the latest round of high-profile Dragon's Challenge activities.

With the finishing line now in sight, companies participating in the Echo competition are stepping up their efforts to raise cash for the NSPCC's South West Child's Voice Appeal before the end of March.

Saturday was a day to remember for Nigel Jones, production manager at kitchen manufacturer System 6, who had his chest and legs waxed by colleagues and passers-by at the Harlequin Shopping Centre.

Meanwhile, high above him on the rooftops, 50 Princesshay centre employees put their faith in ropes and harnesses as they abseiled down the 140ft former Debenhams building. Those taking part included staff from Debenhams, Beaverbrooks, Faith, Fat Face, Ann Harvey, Musto, Reiss, Disney, Wagamama, Schuh, Topshop, Build a Bear and Lloyds TSB.

Princesshay's centre director Wayne Pearce said: "The abseil went remarkably well and everybody who participated really enjoyed it.

"Personally, I would describe it as a once in a lifetime experience. I don't think I'll be taking up abseiling as a hobby, but I'm very glad to have done it, particularly for a really good cause."

Organisers hope the event will have raised around £5,000 once all the sponsorship has been collected.

Sarah McNamara, of System 6 Kitchens, thanked staff at HQ Hair & Beauty for their help with the sponsored waxing and said Nigel had no regrets about volunteering.

"It was very painful but Nigel was absolutely brilliant," she said. "There was quite a crowd watching at one point, but Nigel is not in the slightest bit shy. We had sponsorship from colleagues, customers, suppliers, and Teign Valley Golf Club, where Nigel is a member."

Nigel's ordeal is expected to raise around £700.

The 13 companies taking part in the challenge each have a target of raising at least £5,000 by the end of March to help expand the ChildLine call centre in Exeter.

Staff of law firm Foot Anstey will tonight enjoy a family fun evening at Crealy Great Adventure Park, near Clyst St Mary.

Elsewhere, System 6 still has some tables left for its charity ball at Sandy Park on Thursday, March 4.

The line-up for the night includes Westcountry comedian Tank Sherman, a cabaret singer and a disco.

Tickets for the event are £45 each, to include a pre-dinner drinks reception, a three-course meal and entertainment.

Sarah said: "The ball is our major fundraiser and we have sold about 200 tickets so far, but we would like to sell some more."

To buy ball tickets, or to donate a lot for a charity auction to be held on the night, call Sarah McNamara on 01392 255150.

There is still time for supporters to sponsor the Princesshay abseilers by visiting www.justgiving.com/ Princesshay-Charity-Abseil.