Melksham rugby player takes on 760km fire station challenge

A Melksham rugby player and on-call firefighter took part in a 760km charity cycle ride visiting all 50 fire stations across Wiltshire and Dorset.

Adelina Zandere, who plays for Melksham Rugby Club’s women’s team, took part in The Grand Fire Ride, which raised money for the Fire Fighters C

harity and Bristol Children’s Hospital’s Grand Appeal.

The challenge set off from Lyme Regis on Tuesday 22nd September and finished at Bristol Children’s Hospital on Saturday 26th September, with Melksham’s fire station among the stops on the five-day ride.

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.

 

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

“Looking back on the ride, I’m so proud of what we achieved for The Fire Fighters Charity,” said Adelina. “We rode to support families going through tough times with children in the hospital, but we also rode for each other. It proved just how much mental resilience plays a part in what we do on the job and how powerful it is when we bring that support directly to the communities we serve.”

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 online giving page.”

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