Starting at midday on Friday, 8th April, over 160 firefighters, control operators and corporate staff worked together on their 48-hour mission. By 2pm on Saturday, 9th April, just 26-hours into the challenge, the Service reached the 1,823km distance. AF&RS agreed to keep running and cycling, to reach the furthest distance possible in support of Ukrainian communities. After non-stop cycling and running for 48-hours, AF&RS ran and cycled a distance of 2,976km, smashing the original target of 1,823km.

During the course of the challenge, AF&RS took donations from generous members of the public, at Cabot Circus and via an online JustGiving page, in total raising £7,100.46 for the Red Cross Ukraine Appeal.

Temporary Crew Manager Philip Morse has been personally impacted by the devastation in Ukraine, and lead the Service in this 48-hour challenge. Philip said: “I am overwhelmed by the support of all of my fellow colleagues, and of the generosity of local people.

“I have many family and friends in Ukraine, who continue to go without basic supplies and infrastructure every single day.

“I’m very proud to be part of a Service that comes together in times of need, and raises much-needed money to support those suffering.”

If you haven’t already, and you are able, you can donate at: https://www.justgiving.com/fund raising/avon-fire-rescue