IT S wash and walk for a team of six firefighters from the Baldock and Letchworth Station. They are taking on two demanding challenges for charity – a sponsored car wash and a gruelling walk along Hadrian s Wall. Getting ready for the tasks are Ian Michel

IT'S wash and walk for a team of six firefighters from the Baldock and Letchworth Station.

They are taking on two demanding challenges for charity - a sponsored car wash and a gruelling walk along Hadrian's Wall.

Getting ready for the tasks are Ian Michell, Phil Gray, Simon 'Ronnie' Barker, Sean Costello, Tom Andrews and Tom Barrett from White Watch.

The car wash, a preliminary fundraiser and information day, is on Saturday, February 11, from 10am to 2pm at the station in Weston Way, Baldock, where the team will be scrubbing and polishing cars in return for a donation.

People will also get the chance to learn about how funds raised will benefit the Fire Service National Benevolent Fund, a charity that helps to support families of firefighters injured in service, and Headway, a local charity dedicated to providing support to people with head injuries, their families and carers.

Then starting on April 21 during their four-day break between shifts, they will tackle Hadrian's Wall, walking the 84-mile length of the historic heritage site from Carlisle to Newcastle.

"We've been training extremely hard for The Wall challenge to raise as much money as possible for an excellent cause," said event organiser Ronnie whose previous charity achievements include a seven countries in seven days cycle challenge and carrying a 13.5m extension ladder up Mount Snowdon.

"There is no doubt that the charities we are fundraising for will greatly appreciate the donations and we hope to raise awareness about these charities at the same time."

Anyone who wishes to donate money can send cheques to Ronnie Barker at Baldock and Letchworth Fire Station, payable to 'The Fire Service National Benevolent Fund' and/or 'Headway North Herts and Stevenage'.

A secure collection point is also available at the fire station for donations during office hours.