WHATEVER you do, don’t look down.

These climbers daredevil as they raced to the top of an almost 400ft cliff to be crowned Red Bull White Cliffs champions.

Fifteen of the world’s best climbers gathered in the Isle of Wight to compete in the annual contest which sees each competitor being timed as they scale the 377ft high chalk cliffs over Scratchall’s Bay, next to the Needles, in the fastest possible time.

The fierce competition was won by Tim Emmett in the male category and Angelika Rainer in the female category, with just 11 seconds separated the top three climbers in the men’s group.

Mr Emmett, 41, who won with a time of 16 minutes and 48 seconds, said: “You are climbing as fast as you are able to. But you don’t want to go too quick because you will burn yourself out.

“It was a really fun event and the climb itself was amazing and I was surprised I was the fastest.”

Mr Emmett, who is originally from Taunton, Somerset, has been climbing for 16 years and works as a professional climber, even competing in the climbing world championships.

But the sheer wall overlooking Scratchall’s Bay was still a real test for the experienced climber.

Mr Emmett said: “Right at the top, about three feet before the top, one of my axes started to pull because the rock was too soft.

“I only just managed to get my other axe in.”

Angelika Rainer won the female event with a time of 21 minutes and 33 seconds and said: “It is such a great feeling, it is probably the most amazing competition I have ever been involved in, at such an incredible location.

“The climb was unforgettable and to be able to climb in such a unique place was really a joy."

Katie Jones, Events Manager for Visit Isle of Wight, said: “The Needles is the perfect venue for the climb and it’s a great opportunity for us to showcase this beautiful area with its breath-taking scenery and great attractions.”

Marino Zanti, general manager of the Needles Landmark attraction said: “We were again delighted to play our part in welcoming Red Bull to such an iconic destination.

“Our famous chairlift was appreciated by the climbers who used it to travel down to Alum Bay allowing them to save their energy for the event.”