From old fire helmets to works of art for charity
Operational fire helmets are being turned into canvasses for a new charity project and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is calling on artists to submit their design ideas.
The 25 winning designs will be painted onto helmets, exhibited at Worthing Town Hall and auctioned off, with proceeds going to The Fire Fighters Charity.
Artists from all over West Sussex and the UK are encouraged to submit their creative ideas by February 2 to be in with a chance seeing their concept on a real-life helmet – all previously been worn by firefighters and used at operational incidents.
Mark Andrews, Acting Chief Fire Officer, said: “I am really pleased we can reuse these fire helmets and give them a new lease of life, all for a brilliant charity that does so much to support fire and rescue service staff and their families. Two years ago, our colleagues at Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service ran the Ashes to Art campaign and some phenomenal concepts were submitted – from fire-duck trucks to armadillo designs. I’m really looking forward to seeing the marvellous makeovers.”
Louise Furneaux, Community Fundraiser at The Fire Fighters Charity, added: “I’m delighted to see Ashes to Art return in 2024, once again combining treasured former fire helmets with unique designs by local artists. I want to thank everyone involved in organising this fantastic event. We can’t wait to see the finished designs – all of which will be auctioned off in aid of us and in support of the vital work we do, helping members of our fire service community be at their best.”
Submit your design: Frsmedia@westsussex.gov.uk.