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Local firefighters aim for world records in Ipswich Half Marathon charity challenge

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Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Four Suffolk firefighters are set to attempt three world records at the Ipswich Half Marathon on September 22nd, raising money for charity while running in full firefighting gear.

Why it matters: The firefighters aim to raise £10,000 for the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research UK, honouring colleagues who have died from or are living with cancer.

Firefighters George Trott, left, Grant Whitehead, Councillor Steve Wiles, Crew Manager Paul Shattock, and Firefighter Ashley Buxton
Firefighters Ashley Buxton, left, George Trott, Councillor Steve Wiles, Firefighter Grant Whitehead, and Crew Manager Paul ShattockSFRS

Key details:

  • Crew Manager Paul Shattock of the Bury St Edmunds station will run in full protective equipment and breathing apparatus, aiming to set a record in a new category.

  • Firefighters Grant Whitehead and George Trott of the Ipswich East station are targeting the record for running a half-marathon in full firefighting kit with breathing apparatus, currently 3 hours 10 minutes.

  • Firefighter Ashley Buxton, also of the Ipswich East station, will run in a physical training kit with a breathing apparatus, aiming to beat the current record of 2 hours and 21 minutes.

By the numbers:

  • Full firefighting kit weighs around 45kg (100lbs)

  • Fully-charged breathing apparatus weighs about 12kg (26lbs)

What they're saying: Sally Hammond, Suffolk Fire and Rescue's group manager: "They have been working so hard for this, these records are tough but with the dedication and training they have put in I am sure they can do it."

Councillor Steve Wiles, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for public protection: "Hats off to these firefighters, they have set themselves a phenomenal challenge and I know they will give it their best shot."

How to help: Donations can be made via the team's Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/team/sfrsworldrecord

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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