FIREFIGHTERS from Chew Magna Fire Station and Blagdon Fire Station took part in the Chew Valley 10k in order to raise money for charity.

The two fire stations aimed to raise £500 for The Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research UK, with donations being split equally between the two charities.

Participants would run the ten kilometres course wearing full fire kit, with some firefighters adding to the challenge by running in breathing apparatus sets that weigh approximately 29lbs.

The Fire Fighters Charity supports the mental, physical, and social wellbeing of serving and retired fire and rescue personnel across the UK. They provide a range of services that aim to help thousands of firefighters across the country that need the support in these areas.

Cancer Research UK funds research into more than 200 types of cancer, helping improve diagnosis, treatment, and survival rates across the country.

Founded in 2002, they are currently able to conduct 17 areas of research which can be donated to online, and have spent £443-million in funding for this research since 2021.

Prior to the run, Ross Morgan, watch manager at Chew Magna Fire Station, said: “This isn’t just about the physical challenge – it’s about supporting causes that mean a great deal to our crews and the communities we serve.

“We see firsthand the effects of trauma and illness on people’s lives. That’s why we’re proud to raise money for these two charities doing incredible work.”

The Chew Valley 10K took place on Sunday, June 1, and members of the public can come along and show their support.

Donations to support Chew Magna and Blagdon Fire Stations can be made on the website Justgiving. As of 11.30am on Monday, June 2, they managed to raise £1,040, which is 208 per cent of the initial £500 target.