Local firefighters will be taking part in an 'epic' challenge next month to mark the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City.
A team from Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue will run/walk a 6km route from West Ashland Fire Station to Xscape in the city centre.
They will each carry over 80lbs of breathing apparatus and kit for the full length of the route, that’s the same weight as an average 11-year-old.
Once they reach Xscape, they will ascend the internal stairs of the building – that’s over 198 steps and a height of over 140 ft – before coming back down again.
They will be joined by a second team made up of other emergency services personnel, following the same route but running in PPE and fitness gear. The challenge is to raise funds for both The Fire Fighters Charity and the NYC-based charity The Stephen Siller Foundation.
Chris Montague, Watch Commander at West Ashland Fire Station, said: “This challenge means so much to the team at Bucks Fire & Rescue. All the heroes on that fateful day will be forever remembered for their bravery and by undertaking this challenge in their memory we’re aiming to raise money to help charities on both sides of the Atlantic. We look forward to welcoming spectators to support the Fire Fighters on the day.”
The front piazza at Xscape will host a free event for spectators to cheer the runners home. There will also be a static fire engine display, officers offering fire safety advice, and children can explore a 'play firehouse'.
Donations will be accepted on the day but can also be made in advance by clicking here.
