A team of 15 firefighters based at fire stations in Havering and Essex are gearing up to join in an adrenaline and mud fuelled obstacle challenge in aid of St Francis Hospice.

The firefighters, many from Hornchurch, Romford, Thurrock and neighbouring towns - are taking part in Mud n’ Madness on Saturday 9th February.

The event held at Stubbers Adventure Centre, Ockendon Road, near Upminster, is set over a 7.5km muddy course and participants face a series of army style challenges, 800m of canoeing on the water, a 1,400m run, river crossing, obstacle course and 2,400m run.

Among the team of firefighters is Nick Sadler from Thurrock, who is returning after participating in Mud n’ Madness last year.

Nick said: “We are always taking on charity fundraising challenges and saw a poster for Mud n’ Madness and thought it was something different so signed up. This year more of us are joining in with colleagues from Bethnal Green, Homerton and Stoke Newington stations all participating.

“The event was a laugh and is good for team bonding. My colleague Dave Egan is from Collier Row and his dad was cared for by Saint Francis Hospice community team so it’s great to be able to raise funds for them to provide their specialist care.”

You can enter on your own or as a team of three. Places are £35 for individuals and £100 for teams of three and you will be asked to raise as much sponsorship as you can for Saint Francis Hospice.

Nick said: “Although we enter as teams we all catch up with each other and end up as one big team as you get some people good at running and others better at canoeing. You don’t really need to train for this event just a willingness to get muddy and take on the challenges so why not join us and support the hospice?”

For more information call Lauren on 01708 771405 or email Fundraising@sfh.org.uk.