A firefighter is set to take on an 85-mile walk wearing full fire kit and carrying breathing apparatus, all to raise funds for causes close to his heart.
Sub Officer Nick Hays, from Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service, is taking on the endurance challenge this weekend, braving soaring temperatures as he aims to complete as much of the route as possible.
He’s setting his sights on an unofficial record… as far as he’s aware, the current longest recorded distance walked in full fire kit while carrying breathing apparatus is 57 miles, achieved by a South Yorkshire firefighter. Nick is hoping to equal – or even beat – that distance.
He’s raising funds for us and The Great North Air Ambulance in the process, and says:
“There’s a couple of people I know, including a retired colleague, who have had support from Fire Fighters Charity. One went away to one of the centres for mental health support, a couple more have had physical support. I could probably name almost half a dozen people in the service who’ve benefitted.
“It’s there for all of us… anyone who potentially may need that help one day, including myself.”
Nick adds: “This will be no small feat as a firefighter carries approximately 15kg of kit whilst wearing a suit designed to repel heat, making this quite the challenge!
“I’m looking to go as far as possible and, as best I can tell, the furthest recorded distance travelled is 57 miles so if I can manage anywhere near this, that would be incredible.
“It’s really well known locally, so means a lot to me to complete. I can’t lie though, I’m looking forward to Sunday!”
The challenge will see Nick walk through as many of the Isle of Man’s 17 parishes as possible. He says, around halfway, many walkers need to remove rucksacks and equipment, so if he gets that far, he’ll attempt as much as possible from then on without the kit.
Alex Byers, Regional Fundraiser for Fire Fighters Charity, says: “On behalf of everyone at Fire Fighters Charity, I want to say a huge thank you to Nick for choosing us to support with this epic challenge – we’ll be cheering you on the whole way.
“Half of the funds raised by Nick this weekend will go directly towards supporting our work – providing lifelong care and support to our fire family, during and after service.”
To support Nick’s fundraiser, click here: