Fire and Ice Meet....
Burton Firefighters Si Lilley and Keith Townsend are part of a team in training to climb Mount McKinley in Alaska, in conditions of -35˚C to raise money for the Fire Service Benevolent Fund.
The expedition is taking place from 6th May - 27th May and participants are currently undertaking a strict fitness regime to prepare themselves both physically and mentally for this testing challenge. The team will be climbing 20,320 feet to the mountain's peak, barometrically though this is equivalent to 23,000 feet. The team will be supported by a team of experienced climbers during their trip.
Firefighter Andy Topham, Expedition Co-ordinator says, "The Mountain's nickname is Deadly Denali, that is because we will face extremely low temperatures, possible risk of avalanche and crevasse falls, the dangers of altitude sickness and frostbite. However all of these can be avoided with proper training and preparation."
Team members will have to haul up to 80lbs each up the mountain in stages. They will be eating high calorie dehydrated food, however at high altitude it can take up to an hour just to boil a cup of water. They will sleep in mountain tents and igloos and will be trained to survive in snow holes.
The team have just returned from a week's intensive 'Artic' training with the Royal Marines in Mjolfell, Norway. Andy Topham says "we felt very privileged to train with the Royal Marines, who have a wealth of experience in extreme conditions survival. The training was very intense, we had to live in arduous and freezing conditions, it was all good preparation though for the main expedition, which will be even tougher."
Crew Manager at Burton, Si Lilley says, "We are hoping to raise as much money as possible for this worthy cause, a number of local businesses have already made donations - Pirelli and Unilever have made substantial donations and we've also received support from Cripwell MW Ltd and recruitment agency 24/7 Staff. We'd welcome further support though."
Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Peter Dartford says, "This expedition once again demonstrates the selfless commitment of our staff to assist others. Whilst they will undoubtedly enjoy the experience of a lifetime, there is a great deal of effort required by each of them to ensure they are properly prepared for this daunting challenge - together with the support of many others, particularly the Royal Marines, for which we are extremely grateful."
Donations can be dropped off at Burton Fire Station or Expedition Leader, Andy Topham can be contacted at a.topham@staffordshirefire.gov.uk.
Team Members going on the Expedition:
Andy Topham - Firefighter Tamworth (Team Leader)
Simon Lilley - Crew Manager Burton
Keith Townsend - Firefighter Burton
The Fire Services National Benevolent Fund provide the services that enhance quality of life for serving and retired fire service personnel and their families. The FSNBF have two therapy and two recuperation centres in the UK to provide physical and emotional rehabilitation. Today over 10,000 beneficiaries are supported annually by the charity, which puts it in the most Top 10 Most Effective Charities in the UK. www.fsnbf.org.uk. Registered Charity No. 1093387
Would you like to comment on what you have read? You can - simply click on the link below and share your thoughts now!
Burton Local News - 'Your' voice in the Community... let it be heard.