FIREFIGHTERS from St Austell have presented a cheque of £6,300 to the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust after completing a gruelling 200km ultramarathon.

Back in August, fire crews took part in a mammoth 'east to west’ run across Cornwall to raise money for the trust’s paediatric unit in Truro.

The run commenced at Bude Fire Station and continued along the South West Coast path, with firefighters running through day and night, until they finished their journey at St Just Fire Station.

The route included 30,000ft of climb and presented a real challenge to the St Austell crew, who took on the task with colleagues from across the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service.

All proceeds from the challenge, which took 32 hours, will help Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust continue to provide clinical, practical, financial and emotional support to children and their families.

A spokesperson from the charity said: “The magnificent firefighters at St Austell Community Fire Station have raised an incredible £6351.52 for our Paediatric Wards.

“They undertook a brutal East to West ultra run on the South West Coastal Path. They fought on through weather conditions, pain, injuries and the loss of a tooth to complete their tremendous mission.

“Marshall from Paw Patrol and the crew came to meet some of our Paediatric team including Dr Williams, SSN Kate Rowe, haematology oncology paediatric consultant Mr Mullett and Deb Rowe from the Paediatric Play team.

“Words are inadequate to describe the impact and the soaring of spirits Marshall and the team had on some of our tiny and very sick patients. We really can’t thank the firefighters enough for their kindness and for the difference they’re making.”