ZIP-wiring across the Grand Canyon and sky-diving were some of the daring stunts that healthcare workers put themselves through to raise money for a children's hospice.

The employees of health recruitment company HCL Healthcare raised more than £20,000 for Haven House Children's Hospice, Woodford Green, by edging across the canyon on a zip wire, as well as taking part in a fun run dressed as Father Christmas and a sponsored night-time walk.

The company's managing director, Daren Reisman, said: “The hospice gives hope and support to young people and their families and it is always a pleasure and a privilege to raise money for them.

“We’ve worked hard and had a lot of fun in raising money for Haven House this year, and we hope to do even better in 2011.”

The money raise by the Loughton-based employees will be matched by the company and £40,000 will be presented to the hospice next week.