Jersey firefighters take on gruelling Round Island Walk Challenge – in full kit

Seventeen firefighters from the States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service will be putting their endurance – and boots – to the test later this month as they take on the Round Island Walk in support of two vital charities.

Four teams of four firefighters will take part in the relay event on 21 June, while Firefighter Marcin Mietelka will go it alone, tackling the entire 48.1-mile route solo.

To add to the challenge, each firefighter will be completing their leg of the route in full firefighting kit – including breathing apparatus cylinders, weighing approximately 30kg – adding a huge physical challenge to what is already a demanding trek, especially across the island’s infamous cliff paths.

The crews were particularly drawn to the challenge this year, as 2025 marks a special anniversary: 75 years of the States of Jersey Fire & Rescue Service. 

This powerful effort is all to raise funds for:

• The Fire Fighters Charity, which provides life-changing support to serving and retired firefighters and their families, covering physical rehabilitation, mental health services, and emotional well-being.
• The Around the Island Walk Trust, which supports local Jersey charities and grassroots community initiatives.

For the teams, the walk is being completed as a relay – roughly 12 miles per person – with Firefighter Mietelka walking the entire route solo in full gear.

“The miles will be long, the kit will be heavy – but it’s nothing compared to the challenges faced by those these charities support every day,” said Firefighter Scott McCoy, team organiser.

Supporters can donate directly towards the £1,000 target through the team’s joint fundraising page, thanks to the support of the Island Walk Trustees, and Race-Nation, who have enabled all donations to go to one central link – making giving simpler.