Firefighters' ladder climbing world record confirmed

The Manx firefighters smashed the record with 50 minutes to spare

Ten Isle of Man firefighters have set a new world record for climbing the greatest distance up a ladder in 24 hours, it has been confirmed.

Their world record stands at 114.17km (11,417 climbs), which is 4.58km higher than the previous record set by New Zealand firemen in 2005.

Firefighter Gary Kirby said: "It is great to receive the official Guinness World Records certificate."

Their record is the equivalent of scaling Everest almost 13 times.

'Magnificent achievement'

Chief Fire Officer Brian Draper added: "It was a magnificent achievement and I'm delighted their efforts have been officially recognised.

Their new record is the equivalent of scaling Everest almost 13 times

"Many teams had tried and failed to beat the previous record, but our firefighters surpassed it by a considerable distance. Hopefully the record will remain in the name of the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service for many years to come."

The Isle of Man team last held the record in 1998.

Twelve different brigades from around the world had tried to break the New Zealanders' record and failed.

The challenge also raised £12,500 for five nominated charities.

Rebecca's House children's hospice; Craig's Heartstrong Foundation; Manx Hyperbaric Chamber; Pumps 4 Kids and The Isle of Man Firefighters Charity will benefit from the ladder climb along with Help For Heroes.