He’s back! Andrew Impey is set to embark on another cycle ride to raise even more for The Fire Fighters Charity.
Following on from his previous fundraisers, the 13-year-old will venture eastward through Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex and Kent ticking off more than 50 fire stations along the way.
This will be Andrew’s fourth annual bike ride.
His previous outings have seen him cycle across Hampshire, from Portsmouth to London and then take part in The Fire Fighters Charity’s 75 Challenge which saw the fire service fanatic ride for 75 hours to Lands End in Cornwall.
The schoolboy has raised more than £3,000 since starting out on his One Lad’s Challenge in which Andrew aims to visit every fire station in the UK.
The 2019 leg of this unique challenge kicks off on May 15 from Tadley Fire Station.
He will travel across Surrey, ride along the seafront in Hove and Eastbourne, before reaching the coastal towns of Folkestone, Margate and Herne Bay.
Andrew will then cross the River Medway prior to the final stretch up to Dartford, just before the M25.
Andrew from Portsmouth said: “I love raising money for the fire service. Every year I want to push myself further to help those that put others first.
“I also want to raise awareness for autism and in doing this cycle ride I can do that and visit my friends on fire stations.
“Firefighters are such good role models and do so much more than just fight fires.”
Andrew Impey – or Andrew Dane as he is known on social media – has visited stations across Europe and in the USA where he was made an honorary firefighter at the Fire Department of New York.
Newly appointed Deputy Chief Fire Officer Steve Apter will meet Andrew on his ride to show his support.
He said: “Andrew’s achievements and commitment to the service are truly remarkable. We are proud that his fire station journey began here in Hampshire.”
“I look forward to cheering Andrew on and supporting the great cause he is fundraising for.”
Since being taken along to Havant Fire Station by his parents on Christmas Eve five years ago, Andrew has visited more than 1,000 stations.
Andrew’s mum Kirstine said:
“The fire service has been amazing for Andrew.
“He used to be very shy but since he became involved with HFRS he has so much more confidence.
“I’m so proud of everything he does to fundraise for The Fire Fighters Charity, raise awareness for autism and to complete his challenges.”
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Andy Bowers has supported Andrew’s endeavours and has even ridden alongside him.
He said: “Andrew really is a part of our fire service family, his passion for the work we do is amazing and his enthusiasm spreads to those who meet him.
“I know our crews enjoy welcoming Andrew and his family because he does such a great job fundraising for a cause which is close to our hearts.”
There’s still time to show your support for Andrew by donating on his Just Giving page.
