Cadets complete 999 challenge at Hunstanton Fire Station

Saturday 13th April saw Hunstanton’s Fire cadets aged 13 to 17 taking on a tough challenge in aid of Mind Norfolk and Waveney.

Watch Manager Guy Tavener explained: “The champion of this event is Fire Cadet Daniel (Danny) Prime who is the Mayor’s Fire Cadet for Kings Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council.

Cadet Danny Price & Cadet Leader Guy Taverner. Credit Ian Burt

“Danny chose Mind, which is one of Mayor, Margaret Wilkinson’s, selected charities, and set up the fundraising event.

The briefing. Credit Ian Burt

“He persuaded the fire cadets, all 14 of them, to commit to the 999 challenge which involved running out and rolling back up 999 hoses today - no easy feat and physically very demanding; I’m really impressed with everyone’s enthusiasm and commitment.”

With the cadets are Mind Norfolk & Waveney fundraising & events manager Harry Scott & fundraising support officer Amy Woods. Credit Ian Burt

Mind Norfolk & Waveney fundraising and events manager Harry Scott, and fundraising support officer Amy Woods were there to support the event along with volunteers selling cakes and drinks, the proceeds of which will be added to the fundraising effort, including Gemma Prime who was running the raffle and tables.

A spokesperson for Mind said: "We support the people of Norfolk and Waveney with their mental health and wellbeing through our network of wellbeing centres, talking therapies, residential programmes, social groups, specialist programmes and mental health training. From prevention support to crisis support, wherever you are on your mental health journey, we are here for you.

Our ambition is to ensure that no one has to face poor mental health alone and with the right support and resources anybody can create a life that feels meaningful to them."

At the time of posting this report the justgiving page (https://www.justgiving.com/page/fire-cadetchallenge-1710947537893) had reached £420 and it will remain open until the end of April.

Running out. Credit Ian Burt

Rolling back. Credit Ian Burt

Supported by full time and retained firefighters the youngsters had completed 453 runs and roll backs by the noon refreshment break when Danny, who is fifteen and a Year 10 student at Springwood High School, spoke to Town and Around about the day’s five-hour challenge and his ambition to be a full-time Firefighter.

Ceri Sumner talking to the cadets. Credit T&A

Ceri Sumner talking to the cadets. Credit T&A

Ceri Sumner, Norfolk’s Chief Fire Officer, made an encouraging speech to the cadets, firefighters, representatives of Mind and supporters before donning her kit and joining in with the running out and rolling back of the hoses.

Ceri Sumner completes the roll back. Credit T&A

Holding the rolled up hoses Cadet Lola Playford with Ceri Sumner. Credit T&A