A former Richmondshire firefighter will walk along Hadrian’s Wall in full kit including breathing apparatus for charity later this year.
Adam Collins, 33, from Brompton-on-Swale, is dedicating the walk to his brother Stephen who suffered a heart attack in his early 30s, but survived thanks to the medical help he received and the research done by one of the charities he will raise money for, the British Heart Foundation.
Adam, who previously served as a retained firefighter at Colburn Fire Station, is also raising money by taking on the 18-mile walk on May 19 for The Fire Fighters Charity.
He said: “My brother Stephen had a heart attack in his early 30’s.
“Thanks to Yorkshire Ambulance Service, staff at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough and the help and research from The British Heart Foundation, he is still with us today so I am dedicating this event to him.”
Adam said he always helped organise fundraising events while work at Colburn Fire Station and had always wanted raise money for The Fire Fighters Charity himself, especially after using their services in 2017 at Jubilee House in Penrith, where he went for rehab on his arm after needing surgery when he ruptured his bicep tendon.
He added: “Without their help, my arm would be nowhere near a good as it is today.
“Over the years I have seen firefighters battle through cancer, mental health issues and other physical issues.
“With help from The Fire Fighters Charity, fire service personnel and family members can get the rehabilitation and support they need.
“This is something very close to my heart and I want to do as much as I can to help others, this is the least I can do.”
Adam said the hike in full kit and breathing apparatus would be very demanding.
However he added: “I will be thinking of all the people that our donations will be helping in order to get me through to the end.
“I am determined to complete the event no matter what. I am overwhelmed with the amount of support I have received so far from people and companies in North Yorkshire.”
Among the companies and organisations which have helped him are Richmondshire Leisure Trust, Johnson Cleaners, Catterick Racecourse, Richmond Print and Richmond Motor Services.
To sponsor Adam click here.
