Fire station challenge brings cyclists to Warminster

Cyclists taking on a 760km charity challenge visited all 50 fire stations across Wiltshire and Dorset, with Warminster among the stops on their five-day ride.

The Grand Fire Ride set off from Lyme Regis on Tuesday 22nd September and finished at Bristol Children’s Hospital on Saturday 26th September, raising money for the Fire Fighters Charity and Bristol Children’s Hospital’s Grand Appeal.

At least half a dozen cyclists took on the full challenge, with others joining for individual days or sections of the route.

The fundraiser was inspired by a six-year-old boy who is undergoing treatment for brain cancer at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

The ride is raising money for equipment and medical research through the Grand Appeal, as well as The Fire Fighters Charity, which provides lifelong physical, mental and emotional support to firefighters, control staff, retirees and their families across the UK fire service.

So far, the ride has raised £7,750.75 towards its £10,000 target.

When the cyclists reached Warminster, they were welcomed at The Old Fire Station 1905, a cafe and bar in the town’s former fire station.

The building was constructed in 1905 and operated as a fire station until the 1960s.

Firefighter and organiser Dan Cabell said, “It’s the first time we’ve attempted this challenge and I’m hoping it can become an annual event. We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us so far, and would welcome donations to our on-line giving page.”

To donate, visit https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/fundraising/the-grand-fire-ride