Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service Press Release
A driving day with a difference - why not take up the ‘Challenge’ for charity?

Is the woman in your life a wannabe lorry driver, or perhaps she has always dreamed of driving a fire engine? Well, now’s your chance to pick out the perfect present for her this Christmas!

Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service is helping The Fire Fighters Charity to run a fundraising ‘Ladies Driving Challenge’ that will give women the chance to drive a variety of large and unusual vehicles. Those taking part will be able to try their hand at manoeuvring fire engines, police cars, ambulances, diggers, articulated lorries, buses, coaches and maybe even a tank - all donated by local organisations.

All women over the age of 17 with a full driving licence can take part in either the morning or afternoon sessions at The Fire Service College, Moreton-in-Marsh, on Sunday, April 25th, 2010. Registration costs £10 and entrants are asked to raise a minimum of £90 in sponsorship. Alternatively, you can buy the ‘Ladies Driving Challenge’ as a present for £100. Women can also register themselves for the same cost. All proceeds from the event will go to The Fire Fighters Charity.

The ‘Challenge’ will also be an opportunity to meet your local firefighters and, for those who may be interested in a career in Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service, there will be a chance to try out some of the practical elements of being a firefighter.  Further details will be enclosed in the registration pack.

Gloucestershire County Council’s Group Director for Community Safety, Terry Standing, said: “I’m sure this will be a fantastic day. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity for the women who take part and should raise a lot of money for a really worthwhile cause. We are more than happy to support it.

“As well as providing a fire engine and staff from our retained stations to help on the day, we will be promoting the ‘Challenge’ within our stations and when we do any outdoor collections for the charity over the Christmas period.”

Mike Perraton from The Fire Fighters Charity, said: ‘The ‘Driving Challenge’ will give women the chance to drive a fantastic collection of vehicles often associated with male drivers. This women only challenge will be much more relaxed with the focus on handling vehicles with skill and enjoying new experiences, as well as raising money for a good cause.”

Will Windsor-Clive, Gloucestershire County Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “Why not register yourself or sign up one of your friends or family and give them a Christmas present they will never forget? It sounds like fabulous fun and your ‘gift’ will also provide much-needed funds to a charity that supports the firefighters who risk their lives for us and their families.”

To take part in the ‘Ladies Driving Challenge’, contact Mike Perraton on 07717 895424. Alternatively, register online at  www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/ldc

click here to see Emma Smith taking the Driving challenge at the Fire Service College

ENDS

Notes for Editors
The Fire Fighters Charity offers support to all Fire and Rescue Service personnel and their families during times of need, by providing services such as therapy and recuperation facilities. More than 13,000 beneficiaries are supported annually by the charity.

Issued by: Emma Smith, Gloucestershire County Council Media Team, 01452 426887, emma.j.smith@gloucestershire.gov.uk

16th November 2009