A TEAM of Wye Valley firefighters successfully completed the UK’s Three Peaks Challenge in 24 hours in full kit, raising more than £6,300 for charity.

The FourFireFighters team of two retained firemen from Whitchurch Fire Station – Zav Gunn and Felix Garratt – alongside Joe Malsom and Shane Kittner from Ross-on-Wye, set off to climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon wearing full fire kit and breathing apparatus.

Halfway up Ben Nevis, Joe suffered an injury, and despite soldiering on for a few more miles then made the decision to step away from the challenge, leaving his three Hereford & Worcester Fire & Rescue Service colleagues to battle on.

Shane said the Three Peaks Challenge was part of four physically demanding fundraising challenges over the year they are undertaking.

“We completed the UK Three Peaks challenge in 22 hours 44 minutes,” he said. “Actually climbing the mountains, Ben Nevis was four hours and 45 minutes; Scafell Pike, 3.26 and Snowdon, 3.38.”

Earlier this year, as part of their challenges, they carried a 70kg dummy the length of the Malvern Hills (9.7 miles), overcoming 18 peaks with a total of 2,405 ft of ascent.

They then celebrated 52 years of HWFRS by cycling 52 miles from Whitchurch to Wyre Forest for their open day, before strapping into their harnesses to pull a fire engine 52 metres.

The charity provides lifelong physical, mental, and practical health support to serving and retired fire service personnel and their families across the UK.

“Unfortunately, due to all of the amazing work the charity does, it’s currently giving more than it is receiving,” added Shane.

The team’s Three Peaks driver was Sam Crickmore, with guide Craig Stephens, while the transport was provided by Gwailia Hire and the food and nutrition supplies by Morrisons.

To donate to the FourFireFighters fundraiser, go to JustGiving.com .