FIREFIGHTERS from across Devon set off from Okehampton on Saturday (June 4) on an arduous challenge to walk for 24 hours while wearing their full fire kit and breathing apparatus.

The challenge began at Okehampton Fire Station, stopping off at various stations along a route to Lynton Fire Station over a distance of 83 miles. The relay walk saw fire fighters wearing their full kit, which weighs roughly 30 kilograms.

The walk was carried out to support Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) and The Fire Fighter’s Charity.

Ian Donovan, station chief at Okehampton Fire Station wanted to support CHSW when hearing the charity is celebrating 25 years since its founding. He said ‘We have given money to the charity before, and with its 25th anniversary celebrations and my 40th year in service it seemed a good idea to commemorate both milestones.’

So far the Fire Fighters have raised over £1,000 for both charities, with funds still coming through.

CHSW was founded by Eddie and Jill Farwell in 1991 following their own experiences of caring for life-limited children. The charity now has three hospices, Little Bridge House in North Devon, Charlton Farm in North Somerset and Little Harbour in Cornwall, offering care and support for families across the region.

The Fire Fighter’s Charity is the UK’s leading provider of services that enhance quality of life for serving and retired firefighters, fire personnel and their families. Its vision is to make a positive difference by supporting people in the fire and rescue community when they are in need.’

To find out more about the hospice and how you can help support it in its 25th Anniversary year see www.chsw.org.uk/25

To support the fire fighters on their incredible challenge please visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/BAChallenge