TWO firefighters are preparing to cycle to every fire station across West Yorkshire.
The challenge will take place to mark 25 years since the 9/11 tragedy and to raise funds for the Fire Fighters Charity.
Crew manager Tom Else and firefighter Ben Moody are planning to complete the full route in under 24 hours of riding time, starting at Morley Fire Station and finishing at Fire Service Headquarters and Spen Valley Fire Station.
Mr Else said: "There's two reasons behind me planning this challenge – firstly to mark 9/11 – personally I remember exactly what I was doing that day.
"You get people like Ben who weren’t even born then, but 343 firefighters died at one job.
"343 people who went to work to help people didn’t go home.
"I don’t think that should be easily forgotten.
"Secondly, we're really keen to raise money for the Fire Fighters Charity.
"In 2024, I fractured my spine and they helped me massively.
"I always respected the work they did but after the rehab and support they gave me I can't put into words how important it is – they fix broken firefighters.
"I wouldn't say I'm looking forward to the challenge – I'm looking forward to finishing it.
"It is going to be really hard, but most of the battle is in your head – and I'm hoping the support from colleagues across the service will really help too."
The route is split into six stages, each covering around 40 to 50 miles.
Mr Moody said: "I’ve fallen back on some of my old cycling training but I've never done this kind of mileage though, so this will be a touch into the unknown.
"With the thought of raising charity money I’m sure we will do it.
"9/11 happened when I was a baby so I have no recollection, but I still wanted to honour their sacrifice.
"This ride is a fitting tribute to the people who died, as the Fire Fighters Charity do so much looking after firefighters.
"They look after our colleagues, our families and are there to support us, so it’s our right to go about supporting them."
To donate to support their challenge click HERE.
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