On Sunday 5th of September we will be taking part in the Shropshire triathlon for a cause that is very close to our hearts.

Fires have unfortunately been a reality in rural Portugal for many years and more recently "super fires" such as those in 2017 reach such ferocity that traditional fire fighting methods and resources are stretched to breaking point. The majority of the 30,000 firefighters (bombeiros) in Portugal are trained volunteers risking their lives, often with inadequate equipment and relying on limited public funds and charitable donations. These men and women are driven by a sense of community and duty and are truly heroes.

Local communities have their own firefighters and one of these ‘centre of heroes’ is in Cernache do Bonjardim which is especially dear to us as it was founded by Carla's father, Francisco Antunes da Silva, 40 years ago. Having spoken to the firefighters we discovered that they are in particular need of upgraded personal protection equipment, defibrillators and other first responder equipment.

We would like to ask for your help in raising a little money for them. However much you contribute - pounds, euros or bitcoins :) - every bit helps!

Thank you.