A charity abseil has been moved after endangered falcons were found nesting on the roof of the original location.

Raise – the charity for West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust – and One YMCA had originally planned to hold the event at the Charter House Hostel in Watford town centre on Saturday, June 10.

However, the charities had to seek an alternative location to protect a pair of nesting peregrine falcons on the building's roof.

Fearless fundraisers will now descend Atria Watford instead after the shopping centre stepped into ensure the event could still go ahead.

RSPB area manager Hannah Phillips said: “We’re pleased to hear that the abseil at YMCA’s Charter House Hostel in Watford has been relocated to protect the pair of peregrine falcons that nest there.

“This species has adapted to breeding in our towns and cities, so it’s great to see the charities, event organisers and other parties involved come together to set a new location that will allow these birds of prey to breed undisturbed.

“We appreciate all the hard work they have put into working with nature on this occasion and wish them luck for the upcoming event.”

Watford Observer: The abseil will still go ahead as planned on Saturday, June 10 but at a different location.The abseil will still go ahead as planned on Saturday, June 10 but at a different location. (Image: Raise)

Peregrine falcons are an endangered species as they are illegally killed to prevent them preying on game birds and racing pigeons. However, their numbers have increased in recent years thanks to improved legislation and protection.

Emily Theobald, senior fundraising officer at Raise, said: “Huge thanks to Atria for coming to the rescue, we are really grateful! And we couldn’t be more excited to offer supporters this thrilling opportunity – we are looking for abseilers to go above and beyond for the NHS and help save more lives in our local area.

“Full training will be provided and it’s a great way to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the NHS this summer by saying thank you.”

Mark Turner, One YMCA chief operating officer, said: “I live my life in pretty much a constant state of awe and admiration for all the life-changing and life-saving work that our amazing One YMCA teams do, day in and day out. So, as scary as it is, if abseiling off the side of a building is my way to play a part in supporting those that need us the most – how could I say no!” Places are available through the two charities and participants can choose whether they’d like to raise money for West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust or One YMCA.

Further information is available from raisewestherts.org.uk/abseil or oneymca.org/abseil but participants need to be 18 years old or over to register, unless they are accompanied on the day by a parent or legal guardian (in this case, a minimum age of 14 then applies).

Registration costs £30 (Raise is charging £20 for NHS employees) and a minimum sponsorship of £150 is encouraged.