Tameside volunteer runs for 11 hours to support firefighters and Marie Curie

Local volunteer firefighter Andy Bardsley has completed an incredible 11-hour charity run to raise money for two causes close to his heart, The Fire Fighters Charity and Marie Curie.

The challenge saw Andy set off every hour on the hour, running just over four miles each time, a grueling test of endurance known among runners as the ‘backyard ultra’.

“Every hour you set off on the hour. You’ve got to complete four and a quarter miles nearly in that hour, and then you’ve just got to keep doing it,” Andy explained. “I wanted to get 12, but I made it back with about 30 seconds left on the 11th, so I wasn’t sure I’d make it back in time again!”

In the 11 hours Andy covered more than 45 miles in total, all while raising vital funds for two charities that mean a great deal to him.

“I’m a volunteer in the fire service, and I’ve heard incredible stories of bravery and sacrifice,” he said. “Firefighters face unimaginable situations to keep us safe, often at great personal cost. The Fire Fighters Charity supports these heroes - providing mental, physical, and emotional care when they need it most. I wanted to give back to those who give everything for us.”

The Fire Fighters Charity provides care and support to the UK’s fire familyhelping current and retired firefighters, control staff, and their families with health and wellbeing challenges both during and after service.

In addition to supporting The Fire Fighters Charity, Andy also chose to raise money for Marie Curie, the charity providing care and support to people living with terminal illness.

“I chose Marie Curie because it’s such a good cause,” Andy said. “I was hoping to raise £500 for each charity, and I’m on track to do that.”

If you would like to do donate to Andy’s fundraiser it can be done at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/andy-bardsley-2