A heartwarming Christmas fundraising event in Nottingham has generated a significant sum for a vital cause, blending community spirit with a touch of living history.
Festive Collection Draws Crowds and Cash
The festive collection took place in the city's Market Square, where volunteers and firefighters worked together to raise an impressive £1,334.06. The funds are destined for The Fire Fighters Charity, which supports serving and retired fire and rescue personnel and their families.
Dedicated volunteers were joined by Red Watch crews from London Road and Arnold Fire Stations, who gave up their time during the busy holiday period to support the initiative. Their efforts ensured the event was a resounding success, spreading festive cheer while gathering much-needed donations.
A Star Attraction with a Wartime Past
The undeniable highlight of the day was the appearance of a beautifully preserved 1939 Leyland Wheeled Escape fire engine. This historic appliance was kindly supplied for the event by Bygone Fire Engines.
The engine, which saw service around Birmingham during the Second World War, proved a major draw for the public, attracting strong interest throughout the collection. It is owned by Mr John Todd, a retired sub officer from Arnold Fire Station in Nottinghamshire.
Mr Todd has a wonderful tradition of decorating and lighting the vintage engine each year before taking it to community events. He does this to support Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) and to raise money for The Fire Fighters Charity.
Gratitude for Community Support
Organisers have expressed their sincere thanks to everyone involved. This includes all the volunteers who helped, the members of the public who attended and donated so generously, the Red Watch crews, and of course, Mr Todd for his continued commitment.
Arron Enever, a firefighter and the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service lead for The Fire Fighters Charity, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported this Christmas collection and helped raise such a fantastic amount.”
He added: “Events like this make a real difference and ensure we can continue providing vital support to fire and rescue personnel and their families when they need it most. Thank you to the volunteers, Red Watch crews, and to John Todd for bringing along the historic fire engine and helping to spread festive cheer while supporting a great cause.”
The event perfectly demonstrates how community-focused initiatives can have a profound impact, supporting those who dedicate their lives to keeping the public safe.
