For the first time ever, Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service is hosting a special Driving Challenge with the hope of raising a massive £15,000 for The Fire Fighters Charity, the UK’s leading provider of services that enhance quality of life for serving and retired fire service personnel and their families, and the Earl Mountbatten Hospice the only Hospice on the Isle of Wight who care for people with life-limiting illnesses.

The Driving Challenge, on Saturday 6th Oct, will give participants the chance to experience life behind the wheel of a variety of vehicles they may not usually get the chance to drive – such as fire engines, HGVs, 4x4s and even a tank! All they have to do is secure their place with a £10 deposit, then raise a minimum of £90 for the two charities.

The challenge will take place at BAE in Cowes and the Military History Museum in Cowes, and consists of two sessions: 9am with a drive time of 9.30am-1pm, and 2pm with a drive time of 2.30pm-6pm.

Chief Fire Officer Steve Apter, who is the Regional Co-ordinator for The Fire Fighters Charity in the South, said: “Ever fancied driving a bus, articulated lorry, fire engine, or tractor? If you are looking for a fantastic fun experience of driving a large selection of vehicles in a safe and fun environment then this is the event for you!”

“Right across the UK, The Fire Fighters Charity Driving Challenge has proved extremely popular in previous years and we are delighted to be hosting one here on the Island. We're giving you the opportunity to get behind the wheel of some weird and wonderful vehicles, have a great day out with friends, and raise valuable funds for two worthwhile charities on the Island.

“It’s a great way of getting together with family and friends, celebrating a special birthday or anniversary, or simply giving yourself something different and challenging to do.”

It costs £9m every year to meet the needs of The Fire Fighters Charity’s beneficiaries, and with no government funding, it relies entirely upon donations from the general public and the fire and rescue community. The Hospice has to raise £2.2m to continue the care it gives to over 1300 patients every year.

If you are over 17 years of age with a full driving licence, you can register for the Driving Challenge at www.firefighterscharity.org.uk or contact the Earl Mountbatten Hospice’s Community Fundraser Louise Watson on 01983 528989