Chester firefighters begin training for charity challenge

Firefighters from the Chester fire station are this week embarking on a gruelling training schedule ahead of their 2021 charity challenge – from Sea to Summit.

The four day challenge – which, depending on Covid restrictions, will take place in May - will involve running 55 miles through Snowdonia National Park before stopping at Capel Curig, in Betws-y-Coed.

From there the crew will cycle six miles to the top of Mount Snowdon, and then descend the mountain back to Capel Curig.

On the final day the team will cycle more than 50 miles back to Chester Fire Station. 

In total the crew will travel more than 121 miles and ascend over 13,000 feet.

Ahead of their challenge the crew have now begun their rigorous training to ensure that they are ready for all the challenges they will face. 

Watch Manager Ant McCarthy said: “This is one of the biggest challenges we have ever undertaken and while May might seem a long way off, it’s vital that we begin our training now to ensure we are prepared for every eventuality we are likely to face.

“Over the next few months we will be taking part in regular training sessions which we hope to share though our social media accounts.”

As well as starting their training the crew have also set up a just giving page to help raise as much money for their two chosen charities – the Firefighters Charity and the Joshua Tree Trust.

Ant McCarthy added: “The Firefighters Charity and the Joshua Tree Trust are both really close to our hearts – both provide essential services and we are keen to raise as much money as possible.

“Both of the charities rely on donations and fundraising and they have both been severely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic which has led a massive reduction in the level of funding available to them. 

“I understand it’s a difficult time for many people at the moment, but I would ask anyone who can donate to visit our just giving page:

https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SEA2SUMMIT,

and give as much money as they can to help support these two vital charities.”