On call firefighter Chris Toye, from Broadway station, has achieved third place in the 18-29s category of the prestigious British Firefighters Challenge 2021, which recently took place at the Fire Service College, Moreton-in-Marsh.
Chris also raised £1,000 for Muscular Dystrophy research in the process.
The event was a time-based scenario requiring strength and stamina to ascend and descend stairs efficiently and speedily, while hauling aloft a hose drag and a dummy drag amongst a variety of other tasks.
To add to the pressure, it had to be completed in full fire kit and breathing apparatus.
As well as flying the flag for Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, Chris has been raising funds for Muscular Dystrophy UK (MDUK), a charity close to his heart, and in particular for a close friend who was diagnosed with a form of muscular dystrophy at the age of 14.
Chris was determined to take part in the competition to increase awareness of the condition and generate much needed funds.
Chris, 24 who lives in Broadway with his partner Alice said:
“Muscular dystrophies are a group of inherited genetic conditions that cause the gradual weakening of muscles around the body, with many of those affected having to use a wheelchair in later life as a result.
“Currently there are no available treatments able to stop, slow, or reverse wasting muscles. We are hopeful for my friend, and for all those impacted by muscular dystrophy.
“Everyone’s support of this great cause will go a long way to assist families and help fund research for treatments for muscular dystrophy! I’m so grateful for everyone’s generosity.”
You can find out more about Chris’s mission, and this condition, and how to donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/chrisguy-toye and at Muscular Dystrophy UK
HWFRS’s success in the competition follows the service’s recent achievements at the national Festival of Rescue in Tyne and Wear, where they won the National Water Rescue Champions trophy, and their participation in the National Breathing Apparatus Challenge, also at Moreton-in-Marsh.
You can read more about the recent British Firefighter Challenge 2021 at www.britishfirefighterchallenge.co.uk/.