Firefighters Battle It Out at UKRO Festival of Rescue in Birmingham
Nearly 40 fire and rescue teams from across the UK, plus a special guest team from Ukraine, faced off at this year’s UK Rescue Organisation (UKRO) Festival of Rescue. Hosted by West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS), the free two-day event lit up Birmingham’s Smithfield city centre with action-packed competitions and stunning rescue displays.
Gripping Challenges and New Competitions
- Rope rescue from height
- Water rescue
- Trauma care
- Urban search and rescue in collapsed structures
- Extricating casualties from crashed vehicles
This year also marked the debut of the UK Firefighter Fitness Challenge and a dedicated contest for Fire Cadets, adding fresh excitement to the festival.
Fire Chiefs Praise Skills and Spirit
“We’re super-excited to welcome firefighters from across the country and show our communities their incredible skills,” said Area Commander Samantha Burton, festival coordinator for WMFS.
“Firefighters do far more than battle blazes – the UKRO Festival shines a light on their rescue expertise. It’s a chance to learn, compete, and inspire.”
WMFS Chief Fire Officer Phil Loach added: “Hosting the festival in Birmingham has been a privilege. Congratulations to all winners. This event isn’t just about competition – it fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing that boosts services nationwide.”
Top Teams and Winners Revealed
AwardWinner Fire Cadets Casualty Care Challenge – Best Overall TeamWest Midlands Firefighter Fitness Challenge 18-30Tim Frost Firefighter Fitness Challenge 31-40Ivan Horbacz USAR Best Overall TeamLondon Water Challenge Best Overall TeamSouth Wales Rope Rescue Best Overall TeamLondon Trauma Challenge Best Overall TeamLondon Heavy Rescue Best Overall TeamWest Midlands & Hampshire & Isle of Wight Extrication Best Overall TeamGreater Manchester
The festival drew thousands of enthusiastic spectators, who got a rare glimpse into the bravery and skill behind life-saving rescues. With fierce but friendly competition, the event showed Britain’s fire crews at their absolute best.
