A FIREMAN who is battling cancer will cover 89 kilometres - climbing 10 peaks in 24 hours - to raise money for charity.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service group commander Stu Crebin will take to the hills next month to raise cash for the hard-pressed Fire Fighters Charity, which supports members of the service during difficult times.

For Mr Crebin, the 10 peaks challenge in the Brecon Beacons in August, with a number of friends and colleagues, has a special resonance as he will himself be receiving assistance from the charity after a cancer diagnosis earlier in the year.

“I’m due to go to the charity’s Harcombe House for some rehabilitation as soon as the Coronavirus restrictions allow,” Mr Crebin, 45, said.

“I started to feel ill in January and I was diagnosed with PTSD. Then in April 2020 I was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer which has spread to my liver and lungs.

“Living with PTSD and cancer has had a devastating effect on me but I’m staying positive with the help of loved ones, friends, colleagues and the Charity.

“My cancer treatment consists of both chemotherapy and immunotherapy and although I’ve got a long way to go I’m pleased to say that I’m responding well to the initial treatment! So much so that I’m feeling really positive about my future.”

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The challenge will take place on August 10 and he will be supporting the team at checkpoints and ferrying equipment as they cover 89 kilometres and ascend 4,800 metres to climb 10 peaks over a 24-hour period.

The Brecon Beacons is a challenging environment, used for military training, including special forces selection.

“This is a fantastic charity which is helping me and many others get through some extremely difficult times,” he added.

To donate, visit: justgiving.com/fundraising/stu-crebbin