Fund-raising calendar showcases how Elmswell firefighters are 'serving the community'

A team of village firefighters aim to boost their incredible fund-raising efforts with a calendar which shines a spotlight on their work.

Elmswell fire station is crewed by 11 on call firefighters - 10 of whom appear in the ‘Serving the Community’ calendar.

It profiles what they love about their job, the varied work involved and offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the station, off School Road, as well as dramatic shots of incidents including this summer’s many field and stack fires.

The team aims to raise more than £4,000 for charities and good causes through the calendar - adding to the £100,000 they have raised since 2004.

Ruth Reed, who designed the calendar and took photographs for it, said: “I wanted the calendar to show the dedication and skill of the crew, the versatility of our firefighter role and my pride in our fire service.

“It’s also to show our gratitude to both our community for their support, and our families and friends who regularly see us drop everything to respond to emergency incidents.”

Mrs Reed, who works as a holistic and sports rehabilitation specialist, became an on call firefighter at Elmswell in April following nearly 14 years as a wholetime firefighter in London.

Mark Hardingham, Suffolk’s chief fire officer, added: “Elmswell’s firefighters really are the heartbeat of their local community and this is a great way for the public to find out a little more about them - a perfect Christmas gift.”

To buy a calendar, email ruth.reed@suffolk.gov.uk