Ladies Driving Challenge

Louise Foster | Monday, March 15, 2010

On Sunday, 25^th April 2010, The Fire Service College is supporting The Fire Fighters Charity and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue by hosting the second fundraising Ladies Driving Challenge at the College in Moreton in Marsh.

All ladies over 17 years of age and with a full driving licence are able to take part in this once in a lifetime opportunity to drive a variety of large and unusual vehicles in the 'Ladies Driving Challenge'. During the experience, drivers will have the opportunity, to try their hand at manoeuvring a range of different vehicles including Fire Engines, Police Cars, Ambulances, JCBs, Articulated Lorries, Buses, Coaches and possibly even a Tank, all kindly donated by local organisations.

Event organiser Mike Perraton said 'The Ladies Driving Challenge' promises to be an exciting day, with a chance to drive a fantastic collection of vehicles often associated with male drivers. Other types of driving events can be uncomfortable for ladies as there is often an emphasis on speed.  The ladies only Challenge is much more relaxed with the focus on handling vehicles with skill and enjoying new experiences, as well as raising money for a good cause.'

There is no upper age limit and ladies can join in the fun during either the morning or afternoon sessions. Registration costs £10 and entrants are asked to raise a minimum of £90 in sponsorship.  Or you could buy the challenge as a surprise birthday or Easter present.  All proceeds from the event will go to the Fire Fighters Charity.

Ian Lambkin, Instructor at The Fire Service College said: 'I'm delighted that the College has once again been chosen to host this event and I'm sure this will  again be a fantastic day not only for those taking part,  but also the volunteers who give up their time freely to make sure this event can happen.  

Explained Mike, 'Behind the fun, there is a very serious message that we are supporting those heroic Fire-fighters who risk their lives for us. When they run into a burning building, there is always the real risk of serious injury, and when the worst happens it's not only the Fire-fighters who suffer, but also their families.  The Charity is the only charity dedicated to supporting Fire-fighters and their families in times of need and helping to speed their recovery back to operational duty.'

The day will also be an opportunity to meet your local Firefighters and for those who may be interested in a career in Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, there will be the chance to try some of the practical elements of being a Fire-fighter.  Further details will be enclosed in the registration pack.

To take part in the 'Ladies Driving Challenge', please contact Mike Perraton  on  - 07717 895424 or   register online at http://www.ladiesdrivingchallenge.co.uk/

 Notes to Editor

The Fire Fighters Charity offers support to all Fire Service personnel and their families during times of need, by providing services such as therapy and recuperation facilities.

Despite the best training, accidents and tragedies are sadly inevitable and the Fire Fighters Charity is here to support these brave men and women when things don't go according to plan.

On average, a Fire-fighter suffers physical, psychological or emotional trauma every hour of every day.

The Fire Fighters Charity have two Therapy and Recuperation Centres in the UK to provide physical and emotional rehabilitation to the Firefighters.

Today over 13,000 beneficiaries are supported annually by the Charity, which puts it in the top 10 Most Effective Charities in the UK.