Grenfell Firefighters Tackle London Marathon in Full Gear to Raise Funds
Eighteen brave firefighters who battled the horrific Grenfell Tower blaze are pounding the streets for the London Marathon. Their mission? To raise crucial cash for local groups helping fire survivors, plus the Fire Fighters Charity, which offers physical and mental support to those affected by the disaster.
Running for a Cause: Remembering Grenfell
These heroes were among the first on the scene when Grenfell Tower erupted in flames on 14 June 2017. The tragedy claimed 71 lives, marking the worst residential fire in UK history. Nine runners hail from Red Watch at North Kensington Fire Station, with the other nine from Paddington’s Red Watch.
The Paddington crew will take on the marathon dressed head to toe in full firefighting gear, including heavy breathing apparatus—adding around 30kg to their load. Altogether, 53 London firefighters are racing, with 18 dedicated to Grenfell.
Supporting Grenfell: Where the Money Goes
The North Kensington team is raising funds for Kids on the Green, a charity offering a peaceful space for families and children affected by the fire. From arts and crafts to sports and counselling, it helps young survivors cope and heal.
Meanwhile, the Paddington firefighters are backing three local charities:
- The Harrow Club W10 – supporting disadvantaged youth, including those impacted by Grenfell.
- Rugby Portobello Trust – providing safe spaces for sport, drama, dance, and play for local young people.
- Fire Fighters Charity – delivering vital health and mental wellbeing support to firefighters suffering injuries and PTSD from the Grenfell fire.
Firefighters Speak Out
Crew Manager Martin Gillam, Paddington Fire Station: “Grenfell was a traumatic event, physically and emotionally. The Fire Fighters Charity has been a lifeline for us, offering ongoing help. Alongside supporting that, we’re fundraising for the Harrow Club and Rugby Portobello Trust, which do amazing work in the Grenfell community.”
“Running 26.2 miles in full gear and breathing apparatus—an extra 30kg—is like carrying a Dalmatian on your back! It’ll slow us down but we’re determined to finish strong. Every donation counts.”
Firefighter Tom Abell, North Kensington Fire Station: “We arrived to an unimaginable blaze and fought desperately to save lives in one of Britain’s worst modern tragedies. Since then, we’ve stood with the Grenfell community in grief and solidarity.”
“Now, we want to help heal and rebuild by supporting Kids on the Green. They provide free counselling and fun activities like discos and art therapy for children affected by Grenfell. We want these kids to grow up with joyful memories, not trauma. Please donate to make that happen.”
Fire Commissioner Backs the Brave
London Fire Commissioner Dany Cotton: “I witnessed the horror at Grenfell firsthand. These firefighters show incredible courage by facing that tragedy again to raise funds and awareness.”
“They embody what it means to be a London firefighter – grit, determination, and a fierce drive to help others. I urge the public to back their fundraising efforts. The Grenfell community needs every bit of support, and the Fire Fighters Charity remains vital for the wellbeing of our staff traumatised by that night.”
Support these heroes who risked everything by donating to their chosen charities today. Every penny helps rebuild lives shattered by Grenfell.
