3 days ago
Firefighters run to every fire station across North Yorkshire in gruelling challenge
Two firefighters have completed a punishing 420-mile challenge across North Yorkshire.
The effort raised more than £8,000 for The Firefighters Charity and veteran's charity VTRN Reset.
North Yorkshire firefighter Jay Taylor and Tyne and Wear firefighter Robyn Foster embarked on the "FireCallRun" which saw them run to every fire station across the county in just 14 days.
Firefighter Jay Taylor enjoyed an ice bath at the end of each day (Image: Supplied)
The challenge began at Richmond Fire Station on May 18 and saw the pair cover an average of 30 miles each day.
They journeyed through numerous towns and villages, with key stops in Northallerton, Scarborough, York, Skipton, Harrogate, and Whitby before returning to Richmond.
Robyn said: "We didn't realise how big a challenge it was going to be.
L-R Jon Dyson (Lythe Station Manager), Jonathan Dyson Fire Chief, Jay Taylor and Robyn Foster at Whitby Fire Station (Image: Supplied)
"We knew it was going to be tough, but it was mammoth.
"We both suffered injuries to the tendons in the front of our feet from so much running, so had to swallow our pride a bit and get on the bike—which was just as hard with all the hills we encountered going through the Dales."
Despite the fatigue and injuries, the duo was buoyed by the support they received.
Jay said: "The support we received was unbelievable.
Fylingdales CofE Primary (Image: Supplied)
"The Fire Chief, Jonathan Dyson, joined us in Lythe and ran to Whitby with us, as well as firefighters from various stations joining us for parts of the fortnight.
"We have to say a massive thank you to the support team, mostly made up from Richmond Fire Station, and our partners.
"We didn't have to do any thinking for ourselves — we just had to run.
"They were absolutely fantastic."
Day two (Image: Supplied)
Their effort was driven by a desire to aid two organisations dear to them.
Jay said: "The Firefighters Charity provides vital support to colleagues and friends facing physical and mental health challenges, even helping one friend create precious family memories during terminal illness.
"As a veteran of the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment, I've seen the struggles many face when leaving the military.
"VTRN Reset is doing incredible work to address this, and I'm proud to support their efforts."
Although they have already raised £8,000, Jay and Robyn aim to reach the £10,000 target.
They are considering another challenge, but for now, they urge people to continue supporting their cause through their JustGiving page.
