In a display of dedication and physical prowess, firefighters from London Gatwick Airport’s Fire and Rescue Service successfully completed a grueling stair climb challenge. The event, held to raise funds for the Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) and the Fire Fighters Charity, saw the team ascend the main staircase in the South Terminal departure lounge, simulating the climb of a 110-floor skyscraper.
Each participant tackled the challenge fully equipped in their firefighting gear, adding an impressive 23kg to their load. This included their breathing apparatus, making the climb even more demanding.
During the event, travelers were given the opportunity to learn more about the charitable causes and the impact of the funds raised. The event’s official fundraising website remains open for further contributions, allowing individuals to support these vital organizations.
Melanie Wrightson, Stakeholder Engagement Manager at London Gatwick, expressed pride in the firefighters’ commitment, stating, “We are incredibly proud of our firefighters for completing such a demanding challenge in support of these two remarkable charities. “Both KSS and the Fire Fighters Charity provide vital, life-saving services to our community, and the funds raised will help ensure they can continue their invaluable work.”
KSS, a key charity partner of Gatwick Airport, operates helicopters for immediate emergency response, attending over 3,300 critical situations annually across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. The Fire Fighters Charity provides crucial support to both current and retired firefighters and their families, offering direct assistance at its facilities, including one located nearby in Littlehampton.
In addition to this impressive fundraising event, the Gatwick Airport Community Trust allocated £250,000 to various important initiatives in the region this year. Further demonstrating its commitment to community support, the London Gatwick Foundation Fund is set to distribute its third batch of grants totaling £100,000 in November, bringing the total allocated for 2024 to £300,000.
London Gatwick has also shown its dedication to community well-being by backing events like the Surrey Heli Hike on August 10th and preparing to support the upcoming Sussex Heli Hike on October 5th. The airport’s commitment to these charitable endeavors strengthens its ties to the surrounding communities while making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
