Fireman on mission to run 130 miles for charity

Regan Williams, known as Ron, is visiting 38 fire stations in the West Midlands

A firefighter has begun running 130 miles (209 km) in five days to thank the community's charity for its "unwavering support" during tough times.

Regan Williams, known to many as Ron, plans to visit all 38 fire stations in the West Midlands, running about 24 miles (38 km) a day, to raise funds for the Fire Fighters Charity.

Mr Williams, who has so far raised about £2,100 via his Just Giving page, explained it had been "a pillar of strength" for their firefighting community recently.

"The charity has provided unwavering support for our wellbeing and mental health, especially as we have tragically lost colleagues and loved ones," he wrote.

West Midlands Fire Service has seen a number of deaths in its community this year, including of its former chief Wayne Brown, in January.

Mr Williams, a firefighter on White Watch based at Oldbury station, told the BBC the fundraiser was a way of raising awareness of the work of the charity which supports firefighters, their families and retired personnel.

"It's a good cause," he said.

He said its mental health support included providing a crisis line, which people could call if they wanted someone to talk to.

'Remarkable feat of endurance'

He began his challenge at Binley Fire Station in Coventry on Friday and plans to finish at West Midlands Fire Service headquarters in Vauxhall Road, Birmingham, on 24 December.

On the first day he ran 25 miles and on Saturday he completed 31 miles, visiting nine stations.

He said he felt a bit sore afterwards but would be fine once he got going.

"I'm not a runner, I'm a boxer but obviously that includes a lot of running so I always keep myself fit," he said.

Mr Williams added he was "over the moon" with the funds raised so far.

Watch commander John Evans said it was a "remarkable feat of endurance and dedication" which also helped highlight the "incredible work" of the charity.

Mr Williams' colleagues in the fire service have been wishing him well