REDDITCH firefighters are taking part in a watery challenge to support a successful youth training programme.

Fire crews from Redditch, Droitwich and Bromsgrove will by kayaking down the River Wye during a three-day fundraiser this May to raise cash for the Droitwich Young Firefighters Association (YFA).

prepare for the kayak challenge.

Training for the tough 50-mile challenge, between Hereford and Monmouth, started at Arrow Valley Lake on February 9.

Event organiser Adrian Taylor from Redditch Fire Station said they were looking for residents and local businesses to support the event with donations and sponsorship.

The YFA is a self-funding group attached to Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service. It is for young people aged 13-17 who wish to learn the skills needed to become a firefighter and is run entirely by volunteers.

"Since our first intake in 2000 we have had three young firefighters go on to join the fire service as operational firefighters and some others have stayed on as lay instructors," said Mr Taylor.

The group receives minimal funding which covers costs of basic training, uniforms and transport. As well as essential life-saving training, the group also holds fundraising events such as car washes and bag-packing events, with a large percentage of the proceeds going to other charities.

However, this event aims to raise money solely for the YFA to help fund its annual camping weekend.

"This would enable other charities to benefit for a larger percentage of the monies raised by the young firefighters," added Mr Taylor.

For more details or to make a donation, call Adrian Taylor at the Birmingham Road station on 62223.