Sellafield firefighters raise more than £6,000 for Cancer Research UK

The 13 firefighters, along with 21 friends and family members aged between seven and 62, completed the walk around Derwentwater on September 14. 

Adding another layer of difficulty to the challenge, the group donned full fire kits and breathing apparatus for the challenge.

The walk had been organised by Elliott Wood, with the firefighters raising money for Cancer Research UK.

"It was a damp start to the walk, with typical Cumbria weather, but eventually the sun did come out," Elliott said. 

"As much as weather conditions improved it also made the walk harder. Not only did we have the weight of the breathing apparatus equipment but the fire kit by its nature is designed to stop heat from getting to the wearer, so it also stops heat from getting out.

Friends and family joined the firefighters for the walk (Image: Elliot Wood)

"As the temperature increased on the day so did our body temperature so staying hydrated was key," he said. 

The group completed the walk in three hours and 20 minutes.

They have so far raised £6,059.57, including gift aid, for cancer research, but this amount is expected to increase.

"We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of everybody who has supported us all throughout the build-up and on the day," Elliot said.

"We know the money will go towards further research into this horrible disease and hopefully by us doing this walk, if we have raised awareness to only just one person then we have achieved what we set out to do.

"Thank you again to every person that either participated or donated to the walk, we couldn’t have done it without you," he said. 

The group also extended special thanks to Keswick Mountain Rescue for allowing them to use their facilities, Silloth Nursing and Residential Care Home for supplying cakes, and Keswick Boat Launch for their support.

The group's fundraising page will remain open for the rest of the month.