A group of runners pose together outdoors, smiling. They hold an orange stretcher with a man in a suit and mayoral chain lying on it, while others hold UK flags and a red flag with a crest.

Firefighters and CFO run half marathon carrying stretcher

Fire service personnel from Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service truly went the extra mile and proved teamwork always comes out on top.

A team of firefighters from Suffolk FRS have gone the extra mile – quite literally – this month by completing a half marathon while carrying a 14kg stretcher.

Their challenge wasn’t just about endurance; it was about raising vital funds for us and shining a light on the daily pressures they face in their roles.

Running alongside them in the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon were Suffolk’s Chief Fire Officer, Jon Lacey, and Area Manager, Per Middleton.

As if the stretcher wasn’t enough, the team also carried a 30kg dummy for the entire race – and still crossed the finish line in just 2 hours and 53 minutes. Their teamwork has already raised over £1,000 in aid of us, with further proceeds being donated to the Stowmarket Saturday ASD Club.

A group of people in athletic gear pose in front of a fire engine in a fire station, holding flags including the UK and Ireland flags, with race bibs on their shirts and a stretcher on the ground in front of them.

One of those taking part, George Trott, said of the challenge: “Carrying the stretcher for 21km was a real test of endurance, but we worked as a team and kept each other going. The encouragement from the crowds and the support we’ve had in donations made a huge difference – knowing we were raising money for two causes that help so many people kept us moving to the finish line.”

Chief Fire Officer Jon Lacey added: “This challenge shows the dedication and determination of our people – not only in their work protecting our communities, but also in going above and beyond to raise money for causes that support our fire family and local residents. I’m extremely proud of everyone who took part.”

A group of runners wearing matching black shirts with a badge pose together outside after a race, holding medals and flags with the same badge. Urban buildings and a blue sky with clouds are in the background.

And Steve Wiles, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Safety, added: “It’s inspiring to see firefighters taking on physically demanding challenges to raise vital funds that make a real difference – not only for their colleagues and families within the fire and rescue sector, but also for the wider community. Their commitment and teamwork highlight the positive impact they have beyond their day-to-day duties.”

This is an example of the incredible fundraisers our supporters can organise and get involved in, all to raise funds to support their colleagues and their families across the UK.

If you’re interested in organising a fundraiser in aid of us, you can find ideas and everything you need to get you started here:

Fundraise for us