A firefighter from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) will take on one of the world’s most iconic races this weekend as he runs the London Marathon in support of The Fire Fighters Charity.

Will Basnett, who is based at Spen Valley Fire Station and is also part of the service’s urban search and rescue (USAR) team, will line up on the start line on Sunday, April 26 to take on the 26.2-mile challenge through the capital.

Will said: “As a representative for the charity, I saw the chance to take on the London Marathon – and what an opportunity that was.

“I’d run one before, but I hadn’t trained as well as I should have. I went into it a little naïvely, and I’d always felt there was some unfinished business.”

Will Basnett, who is based at Spen Valley Fire Station, will run the London Marathon on Sunday

placeholder image — Will Basnett, who is based at Spen Valley Fire Station, will run the London Marathon on Sunday

Will is taking on the challenge in support of The Fire Fighters Charity, which provides specialist support to serving and retired fire and rescue service personnel, as well as their families.

He added: “I’m doing it for the charity who support us.

“It feels good to be able to give something back and raise money for a cause that means something to the fire service family.

“I’m just hoping it isn’t too warm on the day.”

The London Marathon has become one of the best-known events in the UK’s sporting calendar, recognised for the runners’ fundraising efforts.

A spokesperson for WYFRS said: “Everyone at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service will be cheering Will on as he takes on the challenge and raises money for a charity that continues to support members of the fire service community when they need it most.”