Gallery & video: Dean of Blackburn among brave fire walkers (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Gallery & video: Dean of Blackburn among brave fire walkers

11:30am Friday 8th March 2013 in News By Jessica Cree, Education reporter

ABOVE: Volunteers take part in the charity event

Brave volunteers bared their soles to raise money for a youth centre.

The 41 firewalkers, who included Blackburn Youth Zone chief executive Peter Little and the Dean of Blackburn, hot-footed it across the burning embers heated to more than 600C.

The fundraiser, which took place outside the Jubilee Street centre, was led by Scott Bell, twice holder of the Guinness World Record for the greatest firewalking distance and founder of UK Firewalk.

The night had a tribal theme and the fundraisers and assembled crowds were treated to special bongo drumming performance by Zone members.

Adding to the entertainment, fire dancing was provided by Zone dance worker Sara Carter.

Laura Jones, events manager at the Zone, said: “Immediately after walking on the coals, I did think it had hurt, but afterwards it actually felt prickly and no blisters at all.

“UK Firewalk were wonderful in their delivery of the event —professional at every level.

“I’d like to thank everyone who took part. Every penny raised will be invested into making a difference to our town’s young people.”

The Very Rev Christopher Armstrong said he was delighted to join the firewalkers to help raise cash.

He said: “It was quite an experience and not as bad as I thought it would be when I was told it was 600C.

“The Youth Zone is a great institution and we need to do all we can to support it and keep it going. It is very important for Blackburn.”

Mr Little said having the support of the fundraisers and the crowds made for a memorable evening.

He said: “We’d like to thank HSL for donating great lighting for the event, which helped create an extraordinary atmosphere.”

Comments are closed on this article.