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Firefighters host charity car wash to raise money for victims and families of Ukraine war

  • 31 fire stations across Greater Manchester participate in charity car wash at weekend
  • Event raises funds for UK-Med's emergency Ukraine appeal
  • Hundreds show their support by donating and attending event held by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service

Greater Manchester firefighters received overwhelming support for their charity car wash events in aid of Ukraine.

Crews from 31 stations across the region washed cars in exchange for a donation towards an emergency appeal following the invasion of Ukraine.

Our firefighters, support staff and volunteers have come forward in their droves to help with the humanitarian crisis

The event, which took place on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13, saw hundreds of people attend to raise ‘vital funds’ for the charity.

Charity car wash, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Ukraine, fundraiser
Firefighters, support staff and volunteers all got involved with washing cars during the fundraiser

The fundraiser, hosted by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service staff, has been widely praised by locals who turned up to show their support.

Alyson Mitchell, who attended the Withington event with her four-year-old son, said: “We had a great time at the charity car wash this morning.

“We were the first car there and the firefighters really took their time to talk to our son. They even let him have a go with the hose and he got dressed up too!

It was a great way to start the day for an amazing cause, and everyone was really friendly.”

Charity car wash, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Ukraine, fundraiser
Children and families were also given the opportunity to try on fire uniforms and test the equipment.

Chief fire officer David Russel said: “The people of Ukraine continue to be in our thoughts during this dreadful time.

“Although we are a thousand miles away, we stand in solidarity as we do whatever we can to support all those affected by the devastating and tragic events that continue to unfold.

“Greater Manchester is known for its generosity, and our firefighters, support staff and volunteers have come forward in their droves to help with the humanitarian crisis.”

Charity car wash, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Ukraine, fundraiser
The 31 stations involved all received an incredible amount of support from locals who attended and donated

All money raised will be donated to UK-Med, a Manchbester frontline medical aid charity which has launched an emergency appeal in light of Ukraine’s current situation.

UK-Med’s founder, Professor Tony Redmond OBE, said: “My heartfelt thanks to the fire and rescue service for their magnificent work in raising money for the UK-Med Ukraine appeal.

“Enormous thanks to all those who volunteered to help and all those who gave so generously. It is truly appreciated and will make an enormous difference to those suffering so badly in Ukraine.”

GMFRS continue to support Ukraine, joining a national convoy that will deliver thousands of items of equipment and kit to aid firefighters on the frontline.

GMFRS is donating two fire engines and a hydraulic platform towards this cause.

They are also encouraging everyone to help by donating to UK-Med’s Ukraine appeal.