An international fundraising event which sees firefighters pushing themselves to the limit is being held in Gloucestershire this weekend.

The British Firefighter Challenge will be taking place at the Fire Service College in Moreton-in-Marsh on Saturday and Sunday, October 9 and 10.

Firefighters from the UK and around the world undertake various tasks at speed in full fire protective equipment while carrying breathing apparatus. The challenges include stair ascents and descents, moving a heavy weight with a heavy hammer and a casualty rescue where a 70kg (11 stone) dummy is dragged to the finish line.

The two-day event, which takes place outdoors, ends with relay teams tackling the same course on Sunday afternoon. It is a family friendly event with a small version of the course that children can try.

This annual sporting challenge aims to raise as much money as possible for the Fire Fighters Charity, which supports all fire and rescue staff, whether currently employed or retired.

Officers from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) will be in attendance each day with a fire engine on site, providing they are not called out on operational duties.

The competition runs from 9am to 6pm both days and is free to attend. Spectators are asked to register in advance here: www.eventbrite.com/e/british-firefighter-challenge-2021-tickets-170326923413 

Toilet facilities, parking and refreshments will also be available and people are advised to bring umbrellas and coats in case of rain.

Social distancing will be encouraged where possible and people are asked to please wear masks when coming indoors for refreshments and toilets unless you are exempt. Anyone with Covid symptoms should not attend - for information on testing and guidance see www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/covid-19-information-and-advice/ 

Volunteers are needed to help the weekend run smoothly and there are also still spaces for sponsors. Anyone interested should email hello@britishfirefighterchallenge.co.uk

More information on the British Firefighter Challenge is available here: www.britishfirefighterchallenge.co.uk 

Chief Fire Officer Mark Preece said: "The British Firefighter Challenge is a great event that raises funds for a very worthy cause so I'm delighted it's being held in Gloucestershire this year. I hope it will be well attended to show our support and please get in touch if you're able to help with volunteering or sponsorship."

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member with responsibility for the Fire and Rescue Service, said: "It's fantastic that we're able to host the British Firefighter Challenge in our county. The challenges on show really highlight the physical demands of being a firefighter and I'm sure everyone attending will enjoy it.

"The Fire Fighters Charity does invaluable work helping injured firefighters and their families so I hope we can support them with funds raised from this event."