A LISKEARD firefighter is preparing to tackle a gruelling 40-mile walk in full firefighting kit and breathing apparatus to raise money for the Fire Fighters Charity.

James Clough, an on-call firefighter with Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, will take on the Smugglers’ Way with members of his crew on September 19 and 20.

This, however, will be no ordinary hike.

James will complete the route wearing his firefighting gear and breathing apparatus, with his colleagues supplying him with fresh cylinders throughout the challenge.

The route will take the team from Boscastle to Jamaica Inn on the first day, before continuing from Jamaica Inn to Looe via Dobwalls on day two.

Around nine people are expected to join James during the challenge, including firefighters, civilians and his partner.

James said the idea came after he and his crew previously walked the Smugglers’ Way in normal walking clothing.

“A couple of years ago, me and my crew walked the Smugglers’ Way in civilian clothing and walking gear,” he said. “It was challenging and our feet were hurting at the end of it, but it wasn’t particularly difficult.

“I’ve been a firefighter for about three years now and have just made my competency, so I thought, what better way to show some of the younger ones who have just joined that you can push yourself a little bit, while also doing something for the charity?”

James originally considered taking on the Three Peaks Challenge in 24 hours, but decided the Smugglers’ Way would provide a more achievable stepping stone towards that ambition.

He also wanted the challenge to be something the whole crew could share.

“I could have done it wearing just a mask and a BA set, or with some weight on my back, but then I wouldn’t need my crew – and I didn’t want it to be about me,” he said. “I wanted everyone to be involved and be part of the climb, walking with me and helping me. It’s going to be a team-building and bonding thing as well.”

The biggest challenge will be keeping James supplied with breathing apparatus cylinders as he tackles difficult terrain while carrying the additional weight of his firefighting equipment.

“We’ll carry five with us and have resupplies at strategic points because they’re not going to last very long,” he said.

James joined the fire service after serving in the Army and moving to Cornwall, where he had spent time as a youngster. He said joining the fire service gave him the sense of camaraderie he had missed since leaving the military.

“It’s 100 per cent that brotherhood I had from my service days that I was missing,” he said.

“It’s not just the laughs, the banter and the people. It’s all the little things you miss from the service.”

The challenge is being staged in aid of the Fire Fighters Charity, with James hoping to raise awareness as well as much-needed funds.

He has already raised over £1,000 and is encouraging people to join the team for part of the walk and support the challenge.