A fire station open day which has raised thousands of pounds for charity has been cancelled – because of the firefighters’ strike.
Huddersfield Fire Station’s annual open day has become a highlight of the town’s summer calendar.
Hundreds of people flock to the event which has raised more than £15,000 for good causes in recent years.
The open day – where youngsters can get up close to fire engines and equipment – was planned for Saturday June 21 between 11am and 4pm.
But the latest fire brigade strike – part of an on-going national dispute – has been called for Saturday from 10am to 5pm.
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has been forced to cancel the open day and there are no plans to re-schedule.
The gala has been held in its present form since 2003 but open days were held before then.
Every year proceeds are split between the Firefighters’ Charity and a local good cause.
In previous years the Forget Me Not Trust, Kirkwood Hospice, Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Marie Curie, Guide Dogs for the Blind and Huddersfield Mencap have benefited.
Last year £3,500 was raised and Barclays Bank made a matching donation which meant the Firefighters’ Charity and the Huddersfield Town Foundation each received more than £3,000. Barclays had also provided match funding the previous year.
This year Huddersfield-based charity Ruddi’s Retreat and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award had been chosen.
Ruddi’s Retreat, named after Ruddi Waterworth-Jones who successfully fought childhood cancer, offers caravan holidays to sick youngsters and their families.
Ruddi’s mum Ali Jones said the cancellation was a disappointment and added: “It would have been brilliant for us.
“We are such a small charity that every single penny makes a big difference. It would have been huge for us.”
At the open day firefighters demonstrate fire safety and rescue techniques and there are children’s rides and games. Other charities were also having their own stalls to raise money.
In a statement, station commander Tony Williams said: “Regrettably the Huddersfield Fire Station Open Day has had to be cancelled as we feel it would be inappropriate to go ahead with the event whilst industrial action is taking place.
“We apologise to members of the community who may have been looking forward to the event.
“We know how enjoyable and valuable it is in raising money for worthwhile causes. We hope to re-arrange the open day if and when circumstances allow.”
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