Charity firewalkers are hot to trot for the cause

Twenty-one people risked burnt soles and toasty toes when they walked over hot coals at the weekend.

Firewalking experts Blaze hosted the smoking event, held at the Beaver Inn, in Beaver Road, South Ashford, and provided a display of fire-eating and fire-spinning while the brave walkers geared themselves up for the hot trot.

The event, on Sunday night, was held in aid of ASD (autistic spectrum disorder) Ashford, a charity which supports families with children and young adults with autism.

Walker Pat Myers said of the experience: “As mum to an 18-year-old with ASD I’ve often said walking through fire, over broken glass, on eggshells or a tightrope – while juggling – is daily life! “Now, I’ve done it for real.” Other activities on the night included a barbecue, a bouncy castle and a stall selling loom bands.

In total, £1,000 was raised for the charity, which was founded by mum-of-two Sam Leaning, 38, in 2011.

Organiser Pete Urquhart-Sell said: “Ashford ASD and Sam Leaning have supported us through a challenging year.

“I had done a firewalk before and often hear parents say they would walk on hot coals for their children, so we set them the challenge”

“A big thank you to all the walkers and those who came to support us.”

For more information on the charity, based in International House, in Dover Place, go to www.asdashford.com

A firewalk was organised on behalf of Ashford ASD charity at the Beaver Inn