Firefighters to run half marathon in full kits

More than 20 West Midlands firefighters are to take part in the Birmingham half marathon next month wearing their full kits, to raise money for two charities.

The team will be fundraising for Fire Fighters Charity and Cure Leukaemia which has helped one firefighter taking part, West Midlands watch commander Adam Joyce, when he was treated for blood cancer.

He said: "The challenge meant a lot. Everyone taking part and the money raised would really help the charities."

"We're so grateful to Adam and every one of these inspirational individuals for taking on such a huge challenge in aid of us," Ellie Rocks, director of fundraising at Fire Fighters Charity, said.

The firefighters are from stations in Highgate, Walsall, Perry Barr, Sheldon and Ward End.

Joyce said he was diagnosed early in his career and was supported by Cure Leukaemia throughout his treatment.

"I was then invited to Jubilee House, Fire Fighters Charity's centre in Penrith, to support me during my recovery from intensive chemotherapy, and to build up my strength to return to firefighting fitness," he said.

"The friendships I made there, the tools I learned and the bespoke rehabilitation I received during the stay, have remained with me and continue to help me every day.

"Thanks to both charities, I was able to return to work and the things I love and to flourish in my firefighting career. I can't thank them enough."

James McLaughlin, Cure Leukaemia chief executive, said: Adam has been a brilliant supporter and patron of Cure Leukaemia for a number of years, and his commitment to giving a voice to those affected by this disease is unparalleled."

The money raised by the firefighters will support the specialist research nurses and clinical trials needed in Birmingham and across the region to help find a cure, he added.

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