For most people who are “petrified” of heights, the idea of climbing through tree tops high above the ground for four hours might put them off – but not so for one adventurous mother, part of a family determined to step outside of their comfort zones for charity.

Along with her husband Michael and children Cameron and Aliya, Natalie Silverstone from Loughton took on the challenge for the Duke of Edinburgh Diamond Challenge, helping raise funds for disadvantaged and vulnerable young people.

The family members each took on a different activity to challenge themselves.

Mrs Silverstone, 48, decided to tackle her chronic fear of heights at Rope Runners in Kelvedon Hatch.

Despite saying she was petrified, and calling the treetop walkway “more than terrifying”, she completed the course in four times the usual hour and is now planning to go again.

Cameron, 17, also took on an adrenaline-fuelled challenge by flying a light aircraft from Stapleford Airfield.

Flying over the M25, the forest and Debden he looked out for his home in The Uplands, but said it was too difficult to find.

He said: “It was quite nerve-wracking flying the plane because I felt under pressure as I was basically in charge and I had to really concentrate.

“Although the pilot was next to me, he let me take off and land the plane.

“He helped me a little bit but I had the controls for most of the flight… it was amazing doing a challenge that not many people my age would normally do.”

Dad Michael, 56, and Aliya, 15, teamed up to traverse and zip-wire across underground prehistoric caves in Snowdonia.

“I can honestly say it was the hardest but most rewarding thing I have ever done,” said Aliya.

Her father said it was “amazing” and added: “I'm glad I took myself out of my comfort zone to complete the Diamond Challenge and raise a little bit of money for the Duke of Edinburgh charity.”