Firefighters set off on fourth fundraising challenge in memory of Hartlepool colleague

Stu, who hailed from Hartlepool, died in March 2021 aged 46 after a 12-month battle with cancer.

The group of 40 Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service colleagues will take on the fourth Stu’s Phoenix Challenge on Sunday, June 11, when they will walk Wales’s classic Bannau Brycheiniog Horseshoe over about 12 miles in memory of Stu and in aid of The Fire Fighters Charity.

In 2020, Stu undertook The Brecon Beacons 10 Peaks Traverse (East to West) with his Phoenix Challenge team.

Despite having intense chemotherapy and immunotherapy sessions in the lead-up, he completed most of the challenge.

For the last two years Hereford Crew Commander Spencer Jones and his HWFRS colleagues have taken on The Brecon Beacons 10 Peaks Traverse (West to East).

This year the shorter distance will allow for a wider participation from serving and retired members of the fire service and friends and family.

The challenge has raised a total of £22,620 so far over the years.

Stu’s sister, Samantha Crebbin, will be there for the challenge weekend and is looking forward to sharing stories and memories of her brother.

Samantha, from Hartlepool, said: “Stu was dedicated to raising money for The Fire Fighters Charity and specifically asked for donations to be made to this charity on his behalf so we know he would fully support and love this event.

“We would like to express how honoured we are at this event being undertaken in memory of Stu.

“He thoroughly enjoyed this challenge himself in August 2020 and we are certain he will be with you all that take on this 2023 challenge so go and make him proud and keep the momentum going!”

Firefighter Spencer Jones said: “The outpouring following Stu’s death from fire and rescue services and colleagues across the country was overwhelming and showed what a popular and inspirational individual he was - far beyond just the fire service he worked for.

“He made his mark, genuinely cared for people and stood up for what he believed.”

To donate visit Just Giving and search for Phoenix Challenge 2023 for The Fire Fighters Charity.

Anyone interested in doing the walk, which starts at 10.30am, can email Spencer at [email protected].