Colleagues from across London Fire Brigade have set off on a 370-mile cycle challenge this week to raise funds for us.
The ‘Big Brigade Bike Ride’ will see 18 firefighters and support staff visit Marine Court, our centre in Littlehampton, as well as every neighbouring Fire and Rescue Service: Kent, Surrey, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Essex.
And for many of them, raising funds for us along the way is particularly close to their hearts, having received our support themselves or seen the impact it can have through colleagues.
Station Officer Victoria Archer, one of the event organisers, said: “I’m incredibly proud to be supporting the Big Brigade Bike Ride. Throughout every mile, I’ll be there to encourage our riders and make sure they feel encouraged every step of the way.
“Having seen first-hand how Fire Fighters Charity has helped my colleagues recover from injuries and return to work, I know just how vital their support is.
“I hope our LFB colleagues and the wider public can get behind our team and support us by cheering us on, donating money and by spreading the word about the amazing work Fire Fighters Charity does for injured firefighters and their families.”
So far, the team has raised over £2,700 for us.
Sub Officer Chris Van-Roten added: “When I had a hip replacement during the pandemic, I felt isolated and I didn’t have any support to get me literally back on my feet. That’s when I turned to Fire Fighters Charity. They gave me someone to talk to and I visited them four times for rehabilitation of my hip. I truly believe I wouldn’t be able to walk properly today let alone be fully operational if it wasn’t for their support.
“The Big Brigade Bike Ride is our way of giving back to the charity that has helped so many of us. If you can, please consider donating via our GoFundMe page.”
Louise Furneaux, Regional Fundraiser at Fire Fighters Charity, said: “On behalf of everyone at Fire Fighters Charity, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all those taking part in this incredible challenge – within London Fire Brigade and across the neighbouring FRSs, who are supporting the team.
“The Big Brigade Bike Ride is a powerful example of what can be achieved through teamwork. They’re not only raising vital funds but also shining a light on the life-changing support we provide to fire and rescue personnel and their families – during and after service.”
The team are due to return on Friday 3 October. You can support them below: