A FIREFIGHTER has completed an unusual challenge to raise funds for the charity which supported his young niece.

Adam Hall, who is based at Malton fire station, covered 40km in 24 hours by running out and rolling up a fire hose, so far raising £3,333.

He said: "In 2020 my niece Olivia, who was just four years old, was diagnosed with a cancer in her arm. She was treated at Leeds General Infirmary (LGI).

"Seeing her so ill was heartbreaking. She underwent a six month chemotherapy treatment which required a weekly trip to LGI which involved overnight stays.

"Her mum and dad were exhausted, the constant worry, travelling and impact on work and home responsibilities really took their toll."

Adam said The Candlelighters Trust has stepped in to so support the family with accommodation as well as offering financial and practical support to families.

"On my first visit to the ward I was expecting it to be a sad, heartbreaking experience. What I noticed was how happy it was. It was bright, colourful and full of positivity. The Candlelighters and play nurse staff kept the children happy and playful. It really put life in perspective."

Adam said after deciding to raise funds for Candlelighters Trust he wanted to do something different.

"I wanted to do something that would earn it. I'm not much of a runner or cyclist, and I've already shaved my head, so I decided to roll hose. Because it's hard work.

"I started at 12 noon on Saturday in fine drizzle. This weather got progressively worse and developed into heavy rain throughout the night. I kept going despite the aching legs and back. My mind set was that I didn't have a choice. I had to keep working to earn those donations and to endure the discomfort, just like the kids on the ward had to.

"When morning came I started to get emotional when the yard filled with other firefighters running out hose alongside me. I was mentally and physically exhausted, my boots and leggings had doubled in weight due to the water saturation but I couldn't stop. I needed to stay strong for Olivia.

Adam said: "My family came around 11.30am and I was so proud when Olivia helped my with the last length of hose. Seeing her now compared to seeing her at this time last year was all the motivation I needed.

"She was officially in remission the day before the event so hopefully her experience is over.

"There are many worthwhile charities out there but I supported The Candlelighters Trust having seen the impact they have with my own eyes."

Olivia's mum, Jemma, said: "Her father and I are overwhelmed that our brave little warrior has been the inspiration for her Uncle Adam to complete such a difficult challenge and raise a substantial amount of money for a charity that are here to help families, like us, through our darkest of days. "

Anyone who would like to donate can do so at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/adam-hall24