Firefighters are set to tackle a challenge that will see them scale the equivalent of Mount Everest carrying more than 30kg of fire kit - all in the name of charity.

Twenty four of Kent Fire and Rescue Service’s newest recruits will climb a staggering 8848 metres on ladders at Westwood Cross Shopping Centre on Thursday, 9 May. The event will kick off at 10.30am and the aim is to finish the challenge by the end of the afternoon.

It’s all to raise money for Demelza House and The Fire Fighters Charity, and members of the public are urged to come and cheer the firefighters on, and donate anything they can towards the two good causes. Donations can also be made via the team's Just Giving page. 

Trainee Firefighter Jon Gater said: “We’re expecting this challenge to be tough and the extra kit we’ll be carrying will make it even harder. But we’re excited and looking forward to raising as much money as we can for the two fantastic charities. We’re also grateful for the support we’ve received from local business.”