Firewalkers’ big feat for animal charity
8:44am Monday 9th August 2010 in News
Firewalkers’ big feat for animal charity
BRAVE fundraisers were left hopping all the way to the bar last night — after walking on fire!
Thirteen daredevils went barefoot over ashes as hot as a volcano.
But despite the monumental challenge facing the group, they followed their expert guidance well and all crossed the finish line safely.
The feat is expected to raise more than £500 for Bolton and Bury Cat Rescue.
Organisers said they were delighted with its success.
Fundraising officer Chedia Varden said: “Everyone has been absolutely wonderful supporting our charity, especially at a time when money is tight. Every penny counts for our group and it will assist us in helping many cats in need. We are really pleased with how the firewalk went.”
Leading the event, at Radcliffe Borough Football Club yesterday afternoon, was Scott Bell of specialist daredevil firm UK Firewalks. Mr Bell holds the world record for walking the greatest distance over fire — 100m.
Before yesterday’s walk, he said: “The participants have been brilliant so far. They have all listened well to the safety advice we have given to them and I think every one of them will get over safely.”
And they did. One of them was Miss Varden, of Hunter Drive, Radcliffe. She personally raised £380 in sponsorship.
She said: “It was scary, but I’m glad I've done it. The fire was a lot hotter than I thought it would be. My feet are hurting now but I’m sure I’ll look back on it tomorrow and be really proud of myself.”
“It is a case of mind over matter. The training reassured me. Everyone will be hopping to the bar for a well-deserved drink.”
Miss Varden, aged 25, added: “It is for a really important cause. We are really in need of help at the moment and this was something a little bit different than the norm.”
