TWO pensioners who survived cancer are to thank the NHS by abseiling off a hospital building for charity.

Great grandparents Brian, 87, and Audrey Berryman, 88, have beaten cancer three times between them.

Now, to mark 65 years since they tied the knot, and to say thank you to the hospital they credit with saving their lives, they will jump off the John Radcliffe Hospital Women’s Centre on Sunday.

The couple, from Eynsham Road, Botley, have both suffered bowel cancer. Mr Berryman, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 1978, also contracted kidney cancer three years ago.

He said: “We just wanted to do something which would say thanks to the Oxford medical teams who have helped us over the years.”

The former RAF pilot said: “Now we are just hoping for a chap at the top who can tie a good knot, and some strong ropes.”

Mrs Berryman, who was diagnosed with cancer five years ago, has decided to tackle her fear of heights by way of saying thanks to staff who cared for her.

They celebrate their sapphire wedding anniversary on June 29.

The former medical secretary said: “I read about this abseil and thought this is something I can do and something I should do.

“It is a small thank you for the wonderful treatment we have both received. I really hope more people will sign up and take part on the day. If we can do it so can you.”

Mr and Mrs Berryman will be among hundreds of participants in the sponsored abseil from the Women’s Centre, which will raise money for both the Oxford cancer and heart centres.

It will go on extras to make life more comfortable for patients at both centres.

Sarah Vaccari, spokesman for Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust, said she hoped more people would be inspired by the daring couple.

The abseil costs £10 to enter, see orhcharitablefunds.nhs.uk or call 01865 743444