A Beckenhham businesswoman endured some burning steps though fire to raise money for charity.

Vicki Sims, 46, founder of Lady Bug Pest Control, did the fire walking challenge for Bromley Mencap – a charity supporting disabled people.

She told News Shopper: “My own son has learning difficulties so the charity means a lot.

“Bromley Mencap offered us the firewalk challenge. I said I would of course do it – but when it came about I thought what have a let myself in for!

"It was mind over matter in all honestly. I had a couple of hours training before it. I just looked up, walked and didn't think about it. I just did it."

Setting a modest fundraising target of £200 – Vicki was thrilled when she raised £867.86 for Bromley Mencap.

The pest controller added: “My family say I am a bit crazy, which I probably am. I just say why not. Life is too short. The support has been amazing.

“At the end of the day I am raising money for vulnerable people."

A spokeswoman for Bromley Mencap said they were grateful for Vicki’s ongoing support of the charity.

She added: “Vicki has supported and fundraised for our charity in many ways and we are so grateful for her recent donation of £867.86 which Vicki raised by taking on a firewalk challenge earlier this year.

“These funds will help us to continue to support and provide our vital services for disabled people of all ages, their families and carers in the London Borough of Bromley.”