Full fire kit climb is summit special
A Perthshire firefighter has climbed the UK’s highest mountain wearing his full fire kit and breathing apparatus.
Stefan Barr, of Auchterarder Fire Station, scaled all 1345 metres of Ben Nevis in six hours and 22 minutes despite the 25kg of extra weight he was carrying.
In doing so, the 36-year-old retained firefighter raised over £1500 for the Firefighters Charity.
Completing the challenge in six hours and 22 minutes Stefan was helped by fellow retained firefighter Darren Ross.
The outing on July 3 made a stark change from his primary employment as a pensions professional.
Explaining his motivation for the fundraiser, Stefan - who joined the service in 2017 - said: “We’ve not been able to do our usual station charity events over the last year and I like to push myself so I decided I’d combine my love of hill walking with my love of being a firefighter and the idea was born.
“I like a challenge and testing myself and this climb certainly done that. Getting to the top felt fantastic, knowing how much money I had raised.
“I was supported on the climb by my colleague, retained firefighter Darren Ross, who was my water carrier and I’m very thankful to him. The charity does great work for people in need and I’m pleased to have raised this money to help support colleagues when they need it.”
Grant MacLachlan, watch commander at Auchterarder, said: “Being a retained firefighter is all about being a part of, and giving back to, the community.
“Stefan’s achievement, supported by his colleague Darren, exemplifies the teamwork our firefighters possess and their determination to support people in whatever way they can.”
He added: “We are always keen to hear from people of all backgrounds and walks of life who want to consider a rewarding career as a retained or volunteer firefighter. Prospective candidates should be 18 or over and live or work within five to eight minutes of the station they are applying for.
“I would encourage anyone within the local area who is interested, to come along to Auchterarder Fire Station on a Tuesday between 7pm and 9pm and find out more.”
Further donations can be made at https://justgiving.com/fundraising/ stefan-barr5
More information on becoming a retained firefightrer is available at https:// www.firescotland.gov.uk/work-with-us/ retained-firefighters.aspx