London Gatwick firefighters tackle 110 floors to support vital local charities
Firefighters from the London Gatwick Airport Fire and Rescue Service successfully completed a challenging stair climb event, raising £2,000 for the Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) and the Fire Fighters Charity.
This inspiring initiative saw participants simulate the ascent of 110 floors in a high-rise building by climbing the central staircase in Gatwick’s South Terminal departure lounge, all while carrying a hefty 23kg of full firefighting gear, including breathing apparatus.
As the firefighters ascended and descended, passengers at the airport had the opportunity to learn more about the charities’ vital work and the impact of the funds raised.
Donations are still being accepted through the official fundraising page, underscoring the community’s ongoing support for these essential services.
Melanie Wrightson, Stakeholder Engagement Manager at London Gatwick, expressed pride in the firefighters’ achievement:
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, one of Gatwick’s official charity partners, operates helicopters that respond to over 3,300 emergencies annually across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex.
The Fire Fighters Charity supports both active and retired fire service personnel and their families, offering face-to-face assistance at its three centres, including one in Littlehampton.
In addition to the remarkable efforts of the firefighters, Gatwick Airport has demonstrated its commitment to local communities by making a total of £250,000 available for worthy causes through the Gatwick Airport Community Trust this year. Furthermore, the London Gatwick Foundation Fund is set to distribute an additional £100,000 in its third round of grant funding in November, bringing the total available funding for 2024 to an impressive £300,000.
Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the significance of such initiatives for UK-based business travellers, stating,
Supporting local charities not only strengthens community ties but also highlights the importance of corporate responsibility. Business travellers can take pride in knowing that their travels contribute to positive social impact.
For information about flights from London’s second airport, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.
