More than £10,000 has been raised for the Fire Fighters Charity thanks to a summer of open days and charity car washes run by Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.
The money was collected at events across the county, where residents turned out to meet their local crews, learn more about fire safety and support the charity that looks after firefighters and their families.
Supporting firefighters
The Fire Fighters Charity provides mental, physical and social support to serving and retired fire and rescue personnel, as well as their loved ones.
Its work includes rehabilitation and recovery programmes and tailored mental health support, helping those who protect the public when they need help themselves.
Head of Response, Stuart Auger, said the level of support shown this year had been “truly inspiring”.
He said: “The response from our local communities this year has been truly inspiring. To see people turn out in such numbers for our events and raise such an amazing amount shows the strength of the bond between our fire service and the public we serve.
“These funds will make a real difference, helping to provide continued support for our staff and their families when they need it most.”
County-wide effort
Over the summer months, stations across Bedfordshire opened their doors for family days, featuring fire safety demonstrations, equipment displays, and children’s activities alongside fundraising.
Crews also ran a series of charity car washes, rolling up their sleeves to clean vehicles in return for donations, with every penny raised going directly to the Fire Fighters Charity.
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has thanked everyone who attended, donated or helped at events, saying the total raised shows what can be achieved when local people and their fire service work together.
A spokesperson added that the funds will help firefighters and their families “recover, rebuild and thrive” when they face illness, injury or other challenges.
