Helping to carry the load

On 27 September, a team of 25 runners from Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, supported by friends and family from the RAF and NHS, will take part in the annual Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon, undertaking an extraordinary fundraising effort that reflects the teamwork, resilience and determination that lie at the heart of the fire and rescue service.

As in previous years, the team will not be taking the easy route.

To add an extra challenge to race day, they will carry an extension ladder for the entire 13.1-mile course to raise money for a cause close to the heart of the fire and rescue community: The Fire Fighters Charity.

This summer's wildfires have highlighted the extraordinary demands placed on firefighters. But it is not just major incidents that take their toll.

Behind every emergency call is a person who has worked through the night, missed family occasions, witnessed trauma and carried immense responsibility during some of life's most challenging moments.

The Fire Fighters Charity provides vital physical, mental health and wellbeing support to serving and retired firefighters, fire service staff, volunteers and their families. When members of the fire service need help, the charity is there.

To support its vital work, we will carry the specially adapted fire service ladder around the course, working together as a team to share the load every step of the way. Some of our runners will be taking the challenge a step further by running in full firefighting kit.

If you have been inspired by the dedication and professionalism shown by firefighters during this summer's wildfires and are grateful they are there when communities need them most, please consider making a donation.

Every pound raised will help ensure that the people who dedicate their lives to protecting others have somewhere to turn when they need support themselves.

Thank you for your support. ❤️🚒

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So, it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.