A REALITY TV STAR took on an Olympic-size challenge when she abseiled 80 metres down the Olympic Park orbit.

Woodford Green-based star of The Only Way Is Essex Lydia Bright scaled the ArcelorMittal Orbit on September 10 to raise money for Barnardo’s.

She was joined by the charity’s chief executive Javed Khan and fellow TV star, BBC presenter Helen Fospero.

Lydia said: "I'm really scared of heights and wasn't sure I could do it when I was standing on the ledge at the top.

"The first step off was terrifying, but then I got more confident, Helen and I ended up having a good old gossip on the way down.

"It was an exhilarating challenge and I'm so pleased I did it and for such a fantastic charity.

"My mum has been a foster carer for 24 years and we support the great work Barnardo's does for those children most in need."

The reality star, who went to West Hatch High School in High Road, Chigwell, has had around 200 brothers and sisters throughout her life because of her mother Debbie’s foster parenting.

Her abseil was part of Barnardo’s 150th anniversary celebrations, which include a nationwide abseil challenge that aims to raise £100,000 for the charity.

Chief executive Javed Khan thanked Lydia, Helen and anybody else taking part in sponsored abseils up and down the country.

He added: "For 150 years, Barnardo’s has been helping vulnerable children overcome huge challenges, such as abuse, neglect or exploitation.

"By taking on challenges such as this, we can help more vulnerable children, young people and families rise to the top."

To donate to Barnardo’s, see the website.